Testimonials
Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working with some incredible artists, producers, and studios across a wide range of projects—from live tours and studio recordings to arranging, producing, and collaborating creatively. I'm deeply grateful for every opportunity and for the kind words shared below. Here's what some artists have said about working together.
Live Performance, Touring & Collaboration
Artists share what it's like to share the stage and work with Sam.
"Sam is a joy to work with, a beautiful player who makes everything sound better."
— Lisa Hannigan
"I've had the absolute pleasure of having Sam Killeen as part of my band for the past 3 and a half years, and I can't say enough about what an incredible musician and person he is. Whether he's playing electric or acoustic, his musicianship always brings something special and considered to the table. Sam's professionalism and attention to detail are unmatched – he’s always prepared, enthusiastic, and ready to work. But beyond his talent, it’s his love for music and genuine care for other people's art that sets him apart. He brings the same passion and respect to everyone’s craft, not just his own. Sam’s a total gem to work with and I always feel confident when he's on stage beside me. His love for music and positive energy make him an incredible bandmate and friend."
— Róisín O
"‘Sam’s attention to detail and input was so helpful to us while organising our biggest headline show. Sam is such a pleasure to work with, he slots right into what is already an established working space which is really remarkable! The vibes are strong with this one. Thanks Sam 💘"
— Pillow Queens
"Sam joined us on conductor duties for the anniversary of our album live stream. Because of his in depth back round in theory, with his help we were able to craft and transcribe the string arrangements we had in mind for the string quartet. He became the translator for any musical language barriers, and that coupled with his work ethic, attitude and dependability all made for a really smooth workflow. He has many strings to his bow (guitar, composition, transcription, production etc) and would recommend him for any of them."
— The Scratch
"As a musician that often works with ensembles, when you walk in a room and see Sam you breathe a sigh of comfort. He makes rooms better. He could allow himself to be arrogant with the sheer weight of skill he possess across multiple instruments and crafts but rather he is quietly confident and generous with his gift - encouraging only the highest quality performance and environment from the team. His base manner is affable, reliable, responsible, flexible and tactful and when he's not making people drop their jaw at his playing, he's making 'em belly-laugh. Sam is a rock... a gem."
— Wallis Bird
"There’s a difference between a really good guitar player and one that understands nuance, empathy, who instinctively knows how much or how little a particular song needs. Sam Killeen is that guy. He elevates a song, and a performance. He also elevates the room and your mood every time. A good guy and an incredible player."
— Gemma Hayes
"Sam Killeen is an exceptional guitarist and a true professional. Having worked with him across multiple tours, I’ve been continually impressed by his versatility, musicianship, and dedication. He brings creativity, precision, and a profound musical intuition to every setting. He’s not just a fantastic player but also a great collaborator—adaptable, reliable, and always bringing a positive energy to the stage. I highly recommend him for any project in need of outstanding guitar work."
— Síomha
"Sharp ears and super chops. Eats the work and can really sing too. Super nice guy to work with! Sam rocks."
— Declan O'Rourke
Studio, Recording & Production
Producers and artists speak on Sam's contributions behind the scenes.
"Working with Sam Killeen is a dream on every level. Sam is a person full of heart who will bring joy and a true desire to connect to any conversation or project. His heart is in the things he does, and I believe that’s part of what makes him extraordinary at what he does. Of course his skill is immense as a guitarist, but it’s the way he cares that sets him apart. I’ve worked with Sam in the studio and on tour and I can tell you I’ll work with him for the rest of my days if he’ll have me. He takes his time with each project to add something truly careful and unique, and I know he never does it quickly or just as a job. He loves what he does as much as I do and together we get to make life a lot more meaningful my approaching music with that shared passion."
— Ajeet
"Whenever I hear that Sam's on a recording session with me in the studio, I get excited! I always know that the session will go really well, with great results. Sam's enthusiasm, attention to detail, and effortless musicianship are huge assets to anyone working with him."
— Alex Borwick
"Sam is a wonderfully musical and inventive player. His tone is gorgeous and if I looked through every take of every recording I’ve ever worked on with him, I’d put money on not a single note being out of place."
— Ber Quinn
"A most gracious colleague to work with . His manner dealing with different and challenging situations is great . He has made the projects flow seamlessly. Both my team here at Grouse and the bands enjoy greatly working with Sam."
— Grouse Lodge Studios
Let’s Work Together
Whether you're building a live show, crafting arrangements, need a reliable session player, or want a creative collaborator in the studio — I’d love to hear about your project.
Live Performance, Touring & Collaboration
Artists share what it's like to share the stage and work with Sam.
"Sam is a joy to work with, a beautiful player who makes everything sound better."
— Lisa Hannigan
"I've had the absolute pleasure of having Sam Killeen as part of my band for the past 3 and a half years, and I can't say enough about what an incredible musician and person he is. Whether he's playing electric or acoustic, his musicianship always brings something special and considered to the table. Sam's professionalism and attention to detail are unmatched – he’s always prepared, enthusiastic, and ready to work. But beyond his talent, it’s his love for music and genuine care for other people's art that sets him apart. He brings the same passion and respect to everyone’s craft, not just his own. Sam’s a total gem to work with and I always feel confident when he's on stage beside me. His love for music and positive energy make him an incredible bandmate and friend."
— Róisín O
"‘Sam’s attention to detail and input was so helpful to us while organising our biggest headline show. Sam is such a pleasure to work with, he slots right into what is already an established working space which is really remarkable! The vibes are strong with this one. Thanks Sam 💘"
— Pillow Queens
"Sam joined us on conductor duties for the anniversary of our album live stream. Because of his in depth back round in theory, with his help we were able to craft and transcribe the string arrangements we had in mind for the string quartet. He became the translator for any musical language barriers, and that coupled with his work ethic, attitude and dependability all made for a really smooth workflow. He has many strings to his bow (guitar, composition, transcription, production etc) and would recommend him for any of them."
— The Scratch
"As a musician that often works with ensembles, when you walk in a room and see Sam you breathe a sigh of comfort. He makes rooms better. He could allow himself to be arrogant with the sheer weight of skill he possess across multiple instruments and crafts but rather he is quietly confident and generous with his gift - encouraging only the highest quality performance and environment from the team. His base manner is affable, reliable, responsible, flexible and tactful and when he's not making people drop their jaw at his playing, he's making 'em belly-laugh. Sam is a rock... a gem."
— Wallis Bird
"There’s a difference between a really good guitar player and one that understands nuance, empathy, who instinctively knows how much or how little a particular song needs. Sam Killeen is that guy. He elevates a song, and a performance. He also elevates the room and your mood every time. A good guy and an incredible player."
— Gemma Hayes
"Sam Killeen is an exceptional guitarist and a true professional. Having worked with him across multiple tours, I’ve been continually impressed by his versatility, musicianship, and dedication. He brings creativity, precision, and a profound musical intuition to every setting. He’s not just a fantastic player but also a great collaborator—adaptable, reliable, and always bringing a positive energy to the stage. I highly recommend him for any project in need of outstanding guitar work."
— Síomha
"Sharp ears and super chops. Eats the work and can really sing too. Super nice guy to work with! Sam rocks."
— Declan O'Rourke
Studio, Recording & Production
Producers and artists speak on Sam's contributions behind the scenes.
"Working with Sam Killeen is a dream on every level. Sam is a person full of heart who will bring joy and a true desire to connect to any conversation or project. His heart is in the things he does, and I believe that’s part of what makes him extraordinary at what he does. Of course his skill is immense as a guitarist, but it’s the way he cares that sets him apart. I’ve worked with Sam in the studio and on tour and I can tell you I’ll work with him for the rest of my days if he’ll have me. He takes his time with each project to add something truly careful and unique, and I know he never does it quickly or just as a job. He loves what he does as much as I do and together we get to make life a lot more meaningful my approaching music with that shared passion."
— Ajeet
"Whenever I hear that Sam's on a recording session with me in the studio, I get excited! I always know that the session will go really well, with great results. Sam's enthusiasm, attention to detail, and effortless musicianship are huge assets to anyone working with him."
— Alex Borwick
"Sam is a wonderfully musical and inventive player. His tone is gorgeous and if I looked through every take of every recording I’ve ever worked on with him, I’d put money on not a single note being out of place."
— Ber Quinn
"A most gracious colleague to work with . His manner dealing with different and challenging situations is great . He has made the projects flow seamlessly. Both my team here at Grouse and the bands enjoy greatly working with Sam."
— Grouse Lodge Studios
Let’s Work Together
Whether you're building a live show, crafting arrangements, need a reliable session player, or want a creative collaborator in the studio — I’d love to hear about your project.