Lurgan singer-songwriter Emma Horan
Up and at it – what is your new morning routine? How has it changed?
WHEN lockdown was in full force, I would Zoom my bestie, Amber, and do a 'Sarah's Day Sweaty Shredder' workout, but now that restrictions have eased we will do a workout together outside, socially distanced. After workouts, I will have a shower, grab a quick breakfast and start my music for the day. I work on Zoom with my friend, Jonny Fitch, who is an incredible producer and songwriter; we will work on music for my solo projects, as well as working on briefs for sync with other artists.
What might you eat in a typical working day for...Breakfast?
I have hummus on everything, so I will have a slice of toast with hummus – and the white of a fired egg on top.
Lunch?
I love a whole-wheat wrap with veggie quorn nuggets, peppers, onions and chickpeas…oh, and of course, more hummus.
Evening meal?
I would choose a veggie stir-fry or a veggie bean stew.
Have you been able to work from home – if so, how have you found it?
I have been so productive, thankfully. Having all the time in the world due to having to stay at home has been great for creating music, but I don't know where I would be without Zoom. Being able to view someone else's computer screen is a game-changer. If I feel creatively drained, I will go for a walk to clear my head.
Best/easiest lockdown meal?
I love a toastie with lots of veg in it and pesto – and hummus. I think I'm known as Hummus Queen.
Weekend treat?
Always pizza! If I could eat one food for every meal for the rest of my life, it would be pizza. I especially love it with lots of veg piled on top.
How have you kept physically and mentally fit during lockdown?
Physically, I have been doing 20 to 30 minute workouts, four or five times a week. I also love to do dance/zumba workouts because they are so much fun and they clear my head. Mentally, I make sure that, if I am getting stuck creatively, I'll not push myself and remember to take a break. I also couldn't be without FaceTime – having group FaceTime with my loves, Jordan, Amber and Mark is good for the soul.
What is your daily outdoor exercise?
I am not a runner; I try, but I just don't enjoy it. I l do love a walk, though – preferably, one with nice views – and I also enjoy a game of tennis.
How do you relax?
With a big cup of tea, Netflix and hanging out with friends.
Teetotal or tipple?
Teetotal – I don't like the taste of alcohol and I don't need it to have a good time. I would far rather have an iced coffee or a Fanta Lemon.
What book are you currently reading?
I'm reading a Christian book by Pete Greig at the moment called How to Pray, and I love it. I'm not the best reader, but it's nice to be able to relax when I can and take time out to concentrate on it.
Best Netflix?
I am obsessed with Vampire Diaries and I'm watching all eight seasons all over again. I also love Gossip Girl, Outer Banks and Selling Sunset.
Most surprising thing you've learned about yourself?
I think without the distractions of everyday life I was surprised how much music I was able to create. We have been able to write and produce roughly three songs a week which I never thought would be possible.
On a scale of one to 10, where have you been in relation to cabin fever and where are you now?
I'd say when restrictions where stricter, I was around 8/10 in relation to cabin fever. It was good to focus on music, but I had a few meltdowns with not being able to see friends and family. Now, I'm at 1/10; I'm so glad we're able to see people outside and places are starting to safely open again.
What are the three things you miss most during lockdown?
Grabbing a coffee with my girls, being able to hug all my loved ones and being able to write songs in the studio.
Where will you go and what will you do when all restrictions are lifted?
I will be getting multiple iced coffees with the girls and having all my friends around for pizza, music and games.
Biggest gripe?
My biggest pet hate is bad manners – for example, not saying 'please' and 'thank-you' – oh, and of course loud, sloppy eaters.
Have your priorities in life or perspectives changed?
I feel like not being able to see friends and family while in lockdown has made me realise that time really does go so fast and you should make time to call the people you love – for me, that's my granny and granda, aka Norma and Ernie
I always appreciated people before lockdown, but the restrictions have definitely increased my determination to make time to call people more often.
Any new skills or hobbies?
I tried to paint the back of a denim skirt that I had in my wardrobe – I created pink and purple clouds and it turned out to be a total fail. I don't think art is for me, but at least I tried.
What would you like to see change for good when this is all over?
It was great to see the environment get a chance to recover, with fewer aeroplanes in the sky and fewer cars on the roads. Mother Nature was finally getting a chance to heal – hopefully that will continue.
Has coronavirus changed your attitude towards your own mortality?
Life is so fragile, but I try to make the most of every day, whatever that brings. I know there's something greater to come on the other side, so I'm grateful not to have to fear anything.
Emma Horan's new single Feeling is out now. More information at Facebook.com/emmahoranmusic
