Some gigs you just know will live rent-free in your memory forever — and this was one of them. My boyfriend Tom and I hopped on a flight to Dublin (an early birthday treat for me) to see Frank Turner play at the iconic Olympia Theatre. We expected a chilled night of live music. What we got? An electric, sweaty, joy-filled evening… plus an interview with the man himself.
Frank Turner live: more than just a gig
From the second Frank and his band, The Sleeping Souls, hit the stage, the energy was undeniable. It’s not just the music — it’s his banter, the way he makes the crowd feel like old friends, and the little moments that remind you why live shows are magic.
The Sleeping Souls lineup:
- Ben Lloyd – guitar, harmonica, mandolin
- Tarrant Anderson – bass
- Matt Nasir – piano, organ, guitar, backing vocals
- Nigel Powell – drums, percussion, backing vocals
By the end of the night, we’d sung along to Recovery, lost our voices to Four Simple Words, and got hit right in the feels with Long Live the Queen.
Related read: 10 essential Frank Turner songs every fan should know
Interview: Wessex Boy himself
After the show, I had the chance to sit down with Frank as he kicked off his UK tour. Casual, grounded, but sharp as ever, he opened up about everything from songwriting inspiration to tattoos, his first gigs, and how he spends his days off.
If you were an animal, what animal would you be?
“A dog. Maybe a pug.”
That sums him up: loyal, scrappy, and unexpectedly loveable.
On writing Four Simple Words
Everyone wanted to know: what inspired one of his most famous tracks?
“I wanted to write a song about punk rock and what it means to me — about the sense of community that sustains me. In addition, I wanted to write something that sounded like a Queen song.”
No wonder it hit differently live. The Olympia crowd went absolutely mad for it.
Related read: Behind the lyrics: How punk rock shapes Frank Turner’s music
On favourites and first gigs
Do you have a favourite song?
“I couldn’t really pick just one. Each song holds meaning; they’re all little expressions of love. Some are more special than others, but I’ve written a lot, so it’s hard to single one out.”
And your first ever performance?
“I played at my older sister’s 13th birthday party. Nirvana covers, mostly. Not sure we were great.”
Hard to imagine now, seeing him command a sold-out theatre with thousands hanging on every word.
On singing and struggles
Did he ever take lessons?
“I was rejected from choir at school. I had a few vocal lessons when I was in Million Dead because I was losing my voice on tour, but I’m otherwise self-taught.”
That self-taught grit is what makes his voice unique. But it hasn’t all been easy.
What’s the hardest part about being a musician?
“The toll it takes on your personal life. It’s tough to have any normal kind of relationship. However, it’s a part of life, so you have to accept it.”
Related read: The rise of folk-punk: From DIY gigs to global tours
On family and inspiration
Frank laughs when asked about family support.
“No. My parents were very concerned I was wasting my life. Might still be, actually. I don’t resent them for it. They’re not familiar with the world I’ve made my way in. They were worried for my well-being.”
As for inspiration?
“Springsteen, if I had to pick just one. He’s consistently excellent as a singer, songwriter and performer. Hugely inspirational.”
Quick-fire round
- Drink of choice at a bar? “Light beer or white wine. And a Jameson chaser.”
- Three things you can’t live without? “My guitar, laptop, my friends. Not necessarily in that order.”
- Tattoos — regrets? “Every tattoo I have has a long story behind it, even the stupid drunk ones. I don’t regret any of them.”
- First concert attended? “A band called Snug at The Joiners Arms in Southampton, 1995.”
Off stage: downtime and future
What’s a day off look like for Frank Turner?
“Mostly hibernating. Touring is physically exhausting. Hotel room, room service, Netflix.”
And after this tour?
“I’m not planning on stopping anytime soon. Once this cycle is done, I’ll be making another record.”
Final word
The Dublin gig reminded me why live music matters. Frank Turner isn’t just another singer-songwriter. He’s a storyteller, a crowd-rouser, and a punk-rock poet rolled into one. Whether it’s I Still Believe, Wessex Boy, or Get Better, his songs aren’t just written — they’re lived.
So here’s the takeaway: if Frank Turner is playing anywhere near you, go. Don’t hesitate. It’ll be sweaty, emotional, unforgettable. And you’ll walk away with your voice hoarse, your heart full, and a story to tell.
Keep up with Frank Turner: Official site | Spotify | Instagram
