Support our Artists: Mimi Lane

Support Our Artists: Mimi Lane

The Civic is giving grants to people across the cultural sector who have lost work due to the Covid-19 crisis – you can make a donation to the Artist Emergency Relief Fund here. 

Meet Vocalist, Songwriter and Pianist, Mimi Lane

I am Mimi Lane. A vocalist, songwriter and pianist from Tipperary.  I love my work as a session vocalist. It has been very a versatile and rewarding journey so far. I have worked for RTÉ 2FM recording imaging with ReelWorld Productions Europe (listen out for me daily!), I play with some of Ireland’s most talented musicians in supergroup, Spring Break, and I sing and play wedding ceremonies and receptions. Some of the highlights in my career include performing the Today FM Sound Garden at Electric Picnic, singing at IRFU events such as Rory Best’s Testimonial Dinner and playing to 11,000 people in the SSE Arena Belfast supporting Cher.

I released my debut single ‘I’m So Scared’ in November 2018. I’d say I would have made a killing on it had I released it this month, given the times! Being an indie artist in Ireland is all in and is definitely tough going. It’s a constant balancing act, trying to freelance, earn money to live and then to find the time and funds to carry out your dream of releasing an album. 

Three weeks ago, I woke up to a devastating government announcement. COVID-19 was spreading and a ban of mass gatherings over 100 people was put in place. I had a full calendar but all my work was cancelled overnight, with absolutely no job security. I was distraught as I had just made the big move back to Dublin only six months earlier; the only place to live in Ireland to carry out the thriving life in music I dreamed of. This news meant I couldn’t pay my rent, my bills or even afford to live after a few weeks. My savings were almost none existent as I had spent the majority of them on a car, my debut single, and the rest getting myself back up to the city I love. 

I was tied to a letting agreement which fell through the cracks of the legislation at the time and I was left with no option but to move home to Tipperary. I am very fortunate that I have a very supportive and loving family who welcomed me home with open arms. As a young adult, in a very competitive career environment, I am determined to use this uncertain time as an opportunity to be as creative as possible, write as much as I can and work towards releasing my next single and furthering my career. 

This grant has given me hope that I can further my musical career and has taken a huge amount of financial pressure off. 

Find out more about the Artist Emergency Relief Fund here.