Elijah Hewson: A Complete Guide to the Rising Star of Inhaler

The name Elijah Hewson is increasingly resonating within the music industry, not just because of his famous father, U2 frontman Bono, but due to his own burgeoning talent as the lead singer and guitarist of the Irish rock band Inhaler. This explainer will delve into the rise of Elijah Hewson and Inhaler, exploring their origins, musical style, current status, and potential future trajectory.

Who is Elijah Hewson?

Elijah Hewson is the son of Bono (Paul David Hewson) and Ali Hewson. Born in Dublin, Ireland, he is best known as the frontman of the four-piece rock band Inhaler. Besides vocals and rhythm guitar, Hewson is also the band's primary songwriter, contributing significantly to their unique sound. He is 24 years old and has been performing with Inhaler since their formation.

What is Inhaler?

Inhaler is an Irish rock band formed in Dublin in 2012. The band comprises Elijah Hewson (vocals, guitar), Robert Keating (bass), Josh Jenkinson (lead guitar), and Ryan McMahon (drums). They've garnered significant attention for their anthemic sound, drawing comparisons to early U2, The Stone Roses, and The Killers. Their music is characterized by soaring vocals, driving rhythms, and emotionally charged lyrics.

When did Inhaler form and gain recognition?

Inhaler officially formed in 2012 while the members were still in school. They spent several years honing their craft, playing local gigs and building a loyal following in Dublin. Their breakthrough came in 2019 with the release of singles like "My Honest Face" and "Ice Cream Sundae," which garnered significant airplay on Irish and British radio stations. They were nominated for the BBC Sound of 2020, further cementing their status as a band to watch.

Where did Inhaler's success begin and where are they now?

Inhaler's journey began in the local music scene of Dublin, playing pubs and small venues. Their initial success was largely confined to Ireland and the UK. However, with the release of their debut album, "It Won't Always Be Like This," in 2021, they achieved international recognition. The album topped the charts in both Ireland and the UK, earning them critical acclaim and a wider audience. They've since toured extensively, playing major festivals like Glastonbury, Lollapalooza, and Reading and Leeds, solidifying their position on the global stage. They are currently touring and working on new material.

Why is Inhaler's music resonating with audiences?

Several factors contribute to Inhaler's appeal. Firstly, their music taps into a nostalgia for the anthemic indie rock of the early 2000s, while still maintaining a contemporary edge. Hewson's vocals, reminiscent of his father's but with his own distinct style, contribute to the band's recognizable sound. Furthermore, their lyrics explore themes of youth, identity, and anxiety, resonating with a younger generation grappling with similar issues. Finally, their energetic live performances have earned them a reputation as a must-see act.

Historical Context: The Influence of U2 and Irish Rock

Inhaler's emergence comes within a rich history of Irish rock music, undoubtedly influenced by U2's monumental success. U2 paved the way for Irish bands on the international stage, demonstrating the power of anthemic rock music with socially conscious lyrics. While Inhaler are forging their own path, the legacy of U2 and other influential Irish bands like The Cranberries and Thin Lizzy inevitably plays a role in shaping their identity. The Dublin music scene, in particular, has been a breeding ground for talent, and Inhaler have benefited from the supportive community and infrastructure.

Current Developments: "Cuts & Bruises" and Touring

Inhaler released their second album, "Cuts & Bruises," in February 2023. The album, while maintaining their signature sound, showcased a greater maturity in their songwriting and a willingness to experiment with different sonic textures. "Cuts & Bruises" reached number one in Ireland and number two in the UK, proving their staying power. The band has been touring extensively in support of the album, playing sold-out shows across Europe and North America. Recent performances have been lauded for their energy and Hewson's increasingly confident stage presence.

Likely Next Steps: Continued Growth and Evolution

The future looks bright for Inhaler. Based on their current trajectory, several developments are likely:

• Continued touring and festival appearances: Live performance remains a crucial aspect of their success, and they are expected to continue touring extensively to build their fanbase.


• Exploration of new musical directions: While their core sound remains intact, they are likely to experiment with different genres and production techniques to evolve their music and avoid stagnation.


• Expansion into new markets: While they have established a strong presence in Europe and North America, they are likely to target new markets, such as South America and Asia, to further expand their global reach.


• Continued songwriting development: Hewson's songwriting is central to Inhaler's success. He is likely to continue honing his craft, exploring more complex themes and developing his lyrical voice.


• Collaboration: Collaborating with other artists could expose Inhaler to new audiences and influence their musical direction.

Addressing the "Nepotism" Factor

It's impossible to ignore the influence of Elijah Hewson's parentage. Being the son of Bono undoubtedly opens doors and generates initial interest. However, Inhaler's success is ultimately attributable to their talent, hard work, and dedication. They have proven that they are more than just a novelty act, consistently delivering quality music and captivating live performances. While the connection to U2 may have provided a starting point, Inhaler has earned their place in the music industry on their own merit.

In conclusion, Elijah Hewson and Inhaler are a rising force in the music world. Their blend of anthemic rock, relatable lyrics, and energetic performances has resonated with audiences worldwide. While the shadow of U2 looms large, Inhaler is carving its own unique path, establishing itself as a band with significant potential and a bright future. Their continued evolution and dedication to their craft suggest that they will be a fixture in the music scene for years to come.