Orla Gartland's performance at Outside Lands 2025 was a vibrant and energetic showcase of her unique personality and charm. Backstage, she discussed her songwriting process, stage presence, and the art of capturing the attention of a festivalgoer enjoying a hot dog.
“Everybody Needs a Hero” – Orla Gartland
I bring the same energy, but it’s a different experience.
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Orla Gartland welcomes me with a bright blue eyeliner look and a warm hug. Earlier that day, the Irish musician delivered a lively set on the Panhandle Stage, leaving the audience mesmerized by her clear vocals, lively spirit, and her enthusiastic left leg that bounces when she's thrilled. Her Outside Lands ’25 performance concluded a series of summer festivals and set the stage for the end of a busy touring year.
She kicked off with “Kiss Your Face Forever,” a beat-driven song about the complex feelings of infatuation. Gartland's expression shifts to one of intensity as she chants to the crowd, “Let’s play a game of emotional monopoly in the name of monogamy.” Accompanied by her all-female band, sporting coordinated wolf cuts, Gartland herself wears red, shredded lace tights and a large jersey. The audience quickly connects with her pointed lyrics, joining in the chorus in support.
Gartland presents an acoustic version of “Why Am I Like This?” Her signature song serves as an excellent introduction to her artistry. This 2019 single marks a pivotal moment for the independent artist, encapsulating feelings often too intense to express verbally, leaving one to scream instead.
She maintains the high energy by moving around the stage during “Backseat Driver,” engaging with various percussion instruments while singing about the perils of evading the truth. She also includes an unexpected cover of Chappell Roan’s “Red Wine Supernova,” stating, “I didn’t write this song, but I wish I did.”
After the show, I meet Orla Gartland in her trailer, where cans of water and makeup items are scattered on the floor-length mirror. Gartland speaks to Atwood Magazine about her passion for songwriting and the importance of not taking oneself too seriously.
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:: Stream/Purchase "Everybody Needs a Hero" here ::
:: Connect with Orla Gartland here ::
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A CONVERSATION WITH ORLA GARTLAND
Atwood Magazine: You referenced the Shrek 2 soundtrack, which I love. Are you familiar with the Frou Frou cover of “Holding Out for a Hero?”
Orla Gartland: I considered using that cover, but I think Bonnie Tyler's version is better for walking out to. The Frou Frou version feels almost too cool.
I notice a punk element in your performance. Your movements are expressive and somewhat aggressive. Do you relate to that?
Orla Gartland: I find the term “punk” intimidating since I’m not very familiar with that scene. When I think of “punk,” I think of Irish artists like Sinead O’Connor, who embodies that spirit. The Cranberries also come to mind, especially their attitude and what they stand for, which challenges traditional femininity—something I can relate to. Even Haim, with their quirky expressions and disregard for appearances, represents a broad spectrum. It’s about standing up for your beliefs and embracing a scrappy spirit.
It’s interesting to see the diversity of performers this weekend. I saw Doja Cat on Friday, who exuded seduction and femininity, contrasted with others who are more formulaic.
Gartland: Definitely. There’s a rich diversity in this lineup, and it's refreshing to see various representations of femininity showcased at this festival.
Your choruses are often simple and anthemic, while your verses are more intricate, which you refer to as “stickier.” What attracts you to this contrast?
Gartland: It reminds me of that Springsteen quote: “The verses are the blues, the chorus is the gospel.” I love a catchy, repetitive line that invites participation. This is ideal for events like this, where audiences can sing along. I prefer to be expressive and detailed in my verses, as that’s where the depth lies for me. Balancing universal themes in the chorus with specific details in the verses works well; if everything is too dense, it might overwhelm the listener.
It seems that the chorus serves as your main argument.
Gartland: Exactly. I'm fascinated by the craft of songwriting, such as recontextualizing the chorus in the second verse. It’s one of the coolest elements.
You call yourself a “humorous performer.” Does playing at a festival allow you more freedom to experiment compared to a headline show?
Gartland: It feels more like an audition. I enjoy the challenge of captivating a crowd that might not be focused solely on the performance. This could be my favorite festival; I loved seeing people from the
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Orla Gartland’s 2025 Outside Lands performance was a vibrant, energetic showcase of her unique personality and charm. Behind the scenes, she discussed her approach to songwriting, stage presence, and the skill of captivating a festival attendee holding a hot dog during her set.