Irish singer Hozier's single goes to fight domestic abuse
By SIAN WATSON, Associated Press
Feb 12, 2016 9:35 AM CST
Musician Andrew Hozier-Byrne, known as Hozier, poses for portraits in west London, Friday, Jan. 29, 2016. “Cherry Wine” _ which features in a live version on his self-titled debut record _ is described by the Irish singer as “a love song, written from the perspective of someone who is in an abusive...   (Associated Press)

LONDON (AP) — Hozier is giving his latest single to charity.

"Cherry Wine" — which features in a live version on his self-titled debut record — is described by the 25-year-old Irish singer as "a love song written from the perspective of someone who is in an abusive relationship." So Hozier and his record labels have decided to donate all of the single's proceeds to several domestic abuse charities, including Women's Aid in the U.K.

Hozier also recruited fellow highflying Irish export — the Oscar-nominated Saoirse Ronan — to star in the video for the song, which will premiere on Valentine's Day. In an interview with The Associated Press, Hozier talked about giving back:

AP: How did the charity connection come about?

H: We found it very hard to find a global program, which was a shame ... but wherever the song will be downloaded, wherever it is in the world ... it will go to an organization that deals with providing information and also outreach programs and also shelters for people who are suffering from domestic abuse. Here in the U.K., it will go to an organization providing financial aid to shelters.

AP: You weren't in the video, but did you just go to set and watch?

H: I was on set and just hung out a little bit and said "Hi" to everybody and thanks more than anything, but it is nice and they are such lovely people. Saoirse is just such a wonderful person . we were all excited about it and proud of it I think.

AP: Saoirse is a fan, she's been to a few of your gigs?

H: She is! One of the earlier shows. We're always kind of bouncing around the world a bit, so it is great to get to hang out with her when I can. She came to one of the first shows in London.

AP: It must feel really good that you can help ... is that something that is important to you?

H: I think when you have the potential to do something there, if you can. I am in a position that it can be done and it is not difficult for me to make a small effort. So it is important for me that the money for that is going to charities.

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