A musician and songwriter with musical antennae that are well-attuned, 22-year-old Declan J Donovan has a keen ear for a melody. The young singer-songwriter from Harlow has quickly carved out an audience for his direct approach: straight-to-the-point pop songs built out of simple ideas. His music paints time-worn experiences with broad brushstrokes, reflecting a musical vision that’s easy to relate to. Still early into his career, he’s enjoyed a rapid ascent to recognition, aided by a sharp instinct for a softly-sung hit.

His quick rise to prominence has been sparked by one of the first songs he ever wrote. ‘Fallen So Young’, written for his brother’s wedding, was performed in lieu of a best man’s speech. Probing love-lorn romance, youth and identity, it was a debut that – like all of Donovan’s music – wore its heart on its sleeve. He hadn’t planned for it to go any further, but when he uploaded the demo six months later, the response took him by surprise.