Chris Leonard, a musician from County Meath, Ireland, experienced a significant transformation after departing from The X Factor. Rising to fame in 2014 as a member of the band Stereo Kicks on the ITV talent show, Chris, now 30, has since embarked on a successful journey with his band Shillelagh Law. Collaborating with renowned artists like James Fernley of The Pogues, KT Tunstall, and Andy Burrows of Razorlight, Chris has also worked with Grammy Award-winning producer Ted Hutt.
Unlike many who return to their previous roles after TV talent shows, Chris was driven to pursue his musical aspirations further. This determination has paid off, with his music now featured on BBC Radio 2. Embracing his Irish heritage, Chris shared, “It’s a blend of our roots,” in an exclusive interview with the Mirror.
Transitioning back to a band setting from a solo career, Chris expressed his unwavering passion for band performance. Reflecting on his X Factor journey, he revealed his initial goal was modest, aiming to showcase his music on a small scale. However, his path took a different turn after joining Stereo Kicks. Despite the unexpected direction, his heart remained set on forming a traditional Irish band, a genre close to his upbringing and soul.
Highlighting the resurgence of Irish music on streaming platforms, Chris emphasized the importance of preserving cultural identities. Drawing inspiration from The Pogues and Irish hiphop trio Kneecap, Chris advocates for cultural appreciation and identity revival. Expressing his desire for a united Ireland, Chris underlined the significance of honoring historical legacies and fostering unity among communities.
Recalling his X Factor experience, including the challenges and rewards, Chris acknowledged the impact it had on his career trajectory. Grateful for the opportunities it presented, he candidly shared personal struggles post-show, shedding light on the pressures of image and self-identity.
Currently, Chris and his band are actively touring, with plans for new music releases and collaborations in the pipeline. Embracing their rapid growth and success, Chris remains focused on delivering high-quality music while staying true to Irish musical traditions.