Orla Gartland’s upcoming tour of North America is drawing attention, not just for her sold-out shows but also due to the staggering financial losses she anticipates. While pop titans like Taylor Swift and Coldplay operate in the realm of billion-dollar ticket sales and sold-out stadiums, many indie artists like Gartland find themselves grappling with an unsettling reality: touring can cost more than it brings in.

As Gartland gears up for her first real tour across the US, hitting major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Seattle, she’s candid about the financial toll it might take. Despite having all 13 of her shows sold out and even needing to upgrade several venues due to overwhelming demand, she grimaces at the thought of losing around $40,000 due to soaring costs, including expedited visas for her band.

“It’s a bit scary, but I’m going to go through with it,” she admits. For Gartland, this tour is not just another line on her résumé; it’s a dream she’s held since she was a teenager posting music on YouTube.

With her new album titled "Everybody Needs A Hero" soon available, Gartland has cultivated a devoted fanbase. Her innovative "Secret Demo Club," launched in 2016, has enabled her to connect personally with fans, offering exclusive demos and insights into her songwriting process. Her breakout moment arrived last year when her track "Why Am I Like This" was featured in a pivotal scene of Netflix's hit series "Heartstopper," catapulting her into a broader spotlight.

But what can fans expect from her new album? Gartland describes it as a complex autopsy of a five-year relationship, full of jagged guitar riffs and introspective lyrics. The collection features vivid contrasts—from grunge-pop anthems like "Kiss Ur Face Forever" to gentle ballads like "The Hit," capturing the myriad emotions of love and loss.

Critics have already showered praise on "Everybody Needs a Hero," calling it an incredible artistic evolution and highlighting her talent as a “blue-ribbon songwriter” in the alt-pop scene. Gartland remains humble yet excited, reflecting on how her music-writing process has evolved, particularly after collaborating with her indie-pop supergroup Fizz.

But as she embarks on the US tour, she acknowledges the difficulties ahead, stating, “Hotel food just makes my soul feel depleted,” and jokingly citing her interest in creative cooking methods to cope with her surroundings on the road.

In a world where the glittering allure of celebrity can overshadow the struggles of emerging artists, Gartland’s story stands out. She might not be raking in cash from this tour, but her determination to connect with her growing US audience is a testament to her passion for music—and that, perhaps, is worth more than any dollar amount. Here's hoping the experience is as rewarding as it is challenging!

Will Orla's sacrifice pay off in her musical journey? Join her as she embarks on this unforgettable adventure!