Cillian Murphy’s former guitar instructor has recalled the actor’s early musical pursuits, revealing that as a teenager, Murphy played in a band whose sound was likened to Fontaines D.C. and U2. This comparison highlights Murphy’s promising musicianship before he transitioned to acting.
Early Music Career Before Acting Fame
Before becoming an acclaimed actor known for roles such as Tommy Shelby in Peaky Blinders, Murphy was deeply involved in music, including participation in a jazz band. His guitar teacher, Mark O’Leary, who taught in Cork, shared details about Murphy’s musical journey during an interview with Echo Live.
O’Leary remembered meeting Murphy on a “wet, windy Saturday afternoon” when the young musician showed up wearing a parka. He described Murphy as “a handy guitarist” and revealed that he introduced him to another student, with whom Murphy formed a band. The teacher noted that Murphy carried a distinctive presence.
“People were going, ‘this guy is gifted,’”
O’Leary said.
The Band’s Sound and Influences
Reflecting on the band’s style, O’Leary stated,
“Having taught him, I could be prejudiced, but the band was at that mezzanine level between Fontaines D.C. and U2.”
This assessment points to a sound blending post-punk energy with classic rock influences. Although Murphy had the potential to continue in music, the band eventually disbanded.
O’Leary explained that Murphy moved on to acid jazz before pursuing acting.
“The acid jazz ship had sailed. He starred in Disco Pigs. His timing was good. He’s a determined guy,”
he added, emphasizing Murphy’s adaptability and drive.
Murphy’s Views on Live Music and Musicianship
In a previously released clip from when Murphy was part of his jazz group, The Sons of Mr Green Genes, he spoke about the value of live music, contrasting it with pop music of the 1980s and early 1990s.
“It came from the whole spirit of jazz, which is the freedom to express yourself on your instrument, which has been lost,”
Murphy remarked.
He continued,
“It can be argued through the ’80s and through the early ’90s [bands were] playing to a pop formula. This is the freedom to go a bit further.”
Murphy highlighted the resurgence of appreciation for musicianship rather than just “a catchy tune,” noting that live music is gaining recognition again among his generation.
Upcoming Projects and Career Developments
Currently, Murphy is set to return to acting roles he is known for, including reprising the role of Jim in the ongoing 28 Years Later trilogy, after not appearing in the initial installment. Additionally, he will appear again as Tommy Shelby in the new Peaky Blinders film titled The Immortal Man. Plans for a new series of the BBC crime drama are also underway, promising more on-screen appearances from Murphy soon.
