Nell Mescal
We had the pleasure of getting to know Nell through her Hai Society Journal, where she shares glimpses into her life and artistry. It’s been a joy to learn about her musical journey - from her early days of performing to how she turned her passion into a career. In our chat, Nell opens up about her pre-show rituals and the inspirations behind her creativity and style. Join us as we explore her favourite music and what makes her feel at home both on and off the stage.
When did you realise you wanted to be a musician?
Growing up, I loved being on stage and have been singing my whole life, so I think I’ve always known it’s what I love most. But when I turned 15, I began exploring how to pursue it as a career.
Of everything you’ve worked on, what are you proudest of? Do you have a favourite song/music video/performance?
I think I’m proudest of my EP, Can I Miss It for a Minute?, as a whole. The community I’ve built around it makes me happiest. (Although, supporting Florence and the Machine is definitely high on the list too!)
What would your ‘desert discs’ album be? Why?
Right now, I think I’d choose Bright Future by Adrianne Lenker. It’s incredibly moving and beautiful.
Can you work to music? What do you listen to if so?
I have lots of playlists on rotation! Right now, I’m listening to an autumn-themed one featuring artists like Bon Iver, Kate Bush, and Lizzy McAlpine.
We’d love to know if you have any pre-show rituals?
I have a few different things I say to myself as a kind of pre-show mantra, but my favorite ritual is a group hug with my band and tour manager, where we each share something we’re grateful for before heading out on stage.
Where is your favourite place to go for a three day break? And give us your three best tips?
Probably Ireland if I’m trying to relax because I get to see my parents!! I’m from Maynooth, so my tips are breakfast in Ely, then a walk with my mum and our dog, Bob, around Carton House, and finally a home-cooked dinner by my dad, lol. Which I guess is just a tip for me, but it’s a must.
When did you feel that you’d found ‘your’ style? Or is this something that you’re still working out?
I think my style is something that’s always evolving. As a baby, my mum dressed me in the cutest outfits—which I’m still a bit jealous of! As I’ve grown up and changed, figuring out what I like has become a really fun part of my life. I get lots of help from my friend Molly Ellison, who’s been styling me for the past few years and has really helped me step out of my comfort zone.
Where do you feel most at home, and why?
Anywhere with my family—which might be an obvious choice, but I just have the best time with them. Whenever I’m with them, I feel the most like myself.
Who do you look to in terms of style?
There are so many people I look up to, but right now I’m especially inspired by Clairo, Maisy Stella, and Laufey.
If you could live in any city in the world, what would it be?
NEW YORK. (Though London is pretty cool too!)
What, where and who inspires you?
I think anything and everything inspires me! My friends, family, other artists, and live shows all play a part. I just saw Chappell Roan live, and it was incredibly inspiring!
You’re hosting a dinner for your closest friends; what are you cooking and what are you serving to drink?
I enjoy cooking, but I often get stage fright in the kitchen, so I stick to simple recipes. I've been obsessed with Gigi Hadid's vodka pasta because it’s so easy to make and incredibly tasty. Whenever I host a dinner party, I always prepare that, along with some tequila cocktails or just an ice-cold Diet Coke.
When did you realise you wanted to be a musician?
Growing up, I loved being on stage and have been singing my whole life, so I think I’ve always known it’s what I love most. But when I turned 15, I began exploring how to pursue it as a career.
Of everything you’ve worked on, what are you proudest of? Do you have a favourite song/music video/performance?
I think I’m proudest of my EP, Can I Miss It for a Minute?, as a whole. The community I’ve built around it makes me happiest. (Although, supporting Florence and the Machine is definitely high on the list too!)
What would your ‘desert discs’ album be? Why?
Right now, I think I’d choose Bright Future by Adrianne Lenker. It’s incredibly moving and beautiful.
Can you work to music? What do you listen to if so?
I have lots of playlists on rotation! Right now, I’m listening to an autumn-themed one featuring artists like Bon Iver, Kate Bush, and Lizzy McAlpine.
We’d love to know if you have any pre-show rituals?
I have a few different things I say to myself as a kind of pre-show mantra, but my favorite ritual is a group hug with my band and tour manager, where we each share something we’re grateful for before heading out on stage.
Where is your favourite place to go for a three day break? And give us your three best tips?
Probably Ireland if I’m trying to relax because I get to see my parents!! I’m from Maynooth, so my tips are breakfast in Ely, then a walk with my mum and our dog, Bob, around Carton House, and finally a home-cooked dinner by my dad, lol. Which I guess is just a tip for me, but it’s a must.
When did you feel that you’d found ‘your’ style? Or is this something that you’re still working out?
I think my style is something that’s always evolving. As a baby, my mum dressed me in the cutest outfits—which I’m still a bit jealous of! As I’ve grown up and changed, figuring out what I like has become a really fun part of my life. I get lots of help from my friend Molly Ellison, who’s been styling me for the past few years and has really helped me step out of my comfort zone.
Where do you feel most at home, and why?
Anywhere with my family—which might be an obvious choice, but I just have the best time with them. Whenever I’m with them, I feel the most like myself.
Who do you look to in terms of style?
There are so many people I look up to, but right now I’m especially inspired by Clairo, Maisy Stella, and Laufey.
If you could live in any city in the world, what would it be?
NEW YORK. (Though London is pretty cool too!)
What, where and who inspires you?
I think anything and everything inspires me! My friends, family, other artists, and live shows all play a part. I just saw Chappell Roan live, and it was incredibly inspiring!
You’re hosting a dinner for your closest friends; what are you cooking and what are you serving to drink?
I enjoy cooking, but I often get stage fright in the kitchen, so I stick to simple recipes. I've been obsessed with Gigi Hadid's vodka pasta because it’s so easy to make and incredibly tasty. Whenever I host a dinner party, I always prepare that, along with some tequila cocktails or just an ice-cold Diet Coke.