The Shape I’m In: Derek Ryan

DEREK Ryan believes in thanking fans for their support after a gig. But there are times when he finds it overwhelming, especially when faced with a crowd of more than 900, each person looking for their special moment with the Carlow singer-songwriter.

“I’m a shy, quiet person off stage. We do a meet and greet after every show and if there’s a big rush — I wouldn’t be comfortable with big crowds coming up,” says the 33-year-old, who got married last June.

But he’s not about to complain about his growing success.

“You have to remember that people only meet you for those 20-30 seconds and you have to be as nice as you possibly can.”

Derek Ryan performs at the Cork Opera House on Saturday, February 11.

What shape are you in?

In the last year, I’ve taken up handball again in my home club. I was a big handball player when I was younger. I’m not as fit as I’d like to be but I play whenever I can. I prefer playing sports to the gym. I walk and I get a notion every now and again to run 5K around the block. When the weather gets better I’d do a lot more running and walking.

What are your healthiest eating habits?

My eating habits are all over the place. You’re on the road so much, it’s very, very hard to get into a routine. Sometimes I’m envious of people who get up for work five days a week and get into a routine of eating and looking after themselves. The weird thing is I like healthy foods — fruit, salads, fish. It’s a case of accessibility. At four in the morning, all that’s available in petrol stations is breakfast rolls. I try to avoid them.

What are your guiltiest pleasures?

I do like a drink — a pint. I go out with a few friends and try different beers. There is a big trend now in craft beers. We support our local — 12 Acres Brewing Company.

What would keep you awake at night?

If there’s something coming up like a big show or tour. I try and balance things — when I work, I work hard and when I’m off, I’m off. At the same time, the music industry is a 24-hour job. I’m doing a bit of writing in America, you could get an email at three in the morning. Generally, your time zones are all over the place. That’s the way it is — I love it. My dad always says make the most of it when it’s hot as things go round.

How do you relax?

I love going to the theatre to see plays. I go to the cinema and watch Netflix — I’m watching Designated Survivor and Shooter. I’m looking forward to Homeland coming back in a few weeks.

Who would you invite to your dream dinner party?

Johnny Cash, he went through a lot — you can hear it in his voice; Bryan Adams — I met him once in Paris backstage at one of his gigs, he’s real quiet guy but really interesting as well; Donald Trump, sometimes it’s good to surround yourself with people you don’t necessarily agree with; and, for eyecandy, Carrie Underwood.

What’s your favourite smell?

I’m into my aftershave — the duty free is a dangerous place for me. I like most of the Chanel ones. I also love the smell of cut grass in March and April.

What would you like to change about your appearance?

I’m 33 and I came to the realisation about a year ago that I’m not going to grow any more. I’m 5ft 5in. When I was younger I always wanted to be taller and well built — but now I’m happy enough with what I’ve got.

When is the last time you cried?

I cry at a lot of things. If I see something on the TV or if I hear a sad song on the radio I’d be welling up. The last time I cried was at the series of adverts on TV about drink-driving — heart breaking.

What traits do you least like in others?

Arrogance — it’s pointless. I always find the most successful people you meet are the nicest. It’s almost like they have nothing to prove.

What traits do you least like about yourself?

I’m very sensitive. I take things to heart. I’m very loyal. Sometimes that can come back to haunt you in business and different things. And I can be very cranky when I don’t get enough sleep.

Do you pray?

I do — I would say my own prayers in my own time.

What would cheer up your day?

Meeting someone you haven’t seen in a while. Carlow is the kind of town where people will stop and talk to you when you’re in the bank and say, ‘Hello, I saw you on The Late Late Show’. It’s nice to feel you’ve that support locally.