Leslie Dowdall is Dublin-born singer/songwriter who made her name as lead singer with the band In Tua Nua. With Flo McSweeney, she will perform Sing Linda Ronstadt and Carole King at Vicar Street, Dublin, on September 28th. ticketmaster.ie
Are you a saver or a spender?
Definitely a spender. I can’t keep money in my pocket for long. If it’s not going on books, music or good food, it’s probably gone on something I absolutely didn’t need but definitely wanted! I have always loved the quote, “Money ain’t important, but it’s always nice to have around the house”.
What was the first job you received money for, and how much were you paid?
My first job was selling ice cream at the funfair in Courtown, Co Wexford. I earned so little I honestly can’t remember the exact amount, but I do remember coming home covered in 99s and thinking I was rich.
Do you shop around for better value?
I like good value, but I don’t overthink it, which is why I love TK Maxx. It feels like the treasure hunt’s already been done for me.
RM Block
What has been your most extravagant purchase, and how much did it cost?
My most extravagant purchase was a blue 325i BMW in mint condition, complete with chrome trimmings and serious Sunday flair. It cost €5,000, a proper holy day car, not for the school run!
What purchase have you made that you consider the best value for money?
The best value-for-money purchase I have made is a sturdy pair of walking shoes. They weren’t expensive, but they have lasted for years and taken me everywhere from city streets to country lanes, no blisters, no regrets.
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Is there anything you regret spending money on?
I once splurged on a very fancy electric toothbrush that promised all sorts of miracles: whitening, polishing and probably world peace. After a week, I went back to my trusty manual one. The electric toothbrush now sits in the bathroom like a very quiet, expensive reminder.
Do you haggle over prices?
Only once, in a Moroccan souk, where I haggled for nearly two hours over a leather rucksack with red carpet inserts. I felt like a negotiation ninja, until it got stolen the moment I landed in Barcelona. Turns out, my bargaining skills don’t extend to keeping my belongings safe.
Do you invest in shares and/or cryptocurrency?
Crypto’s still a mystery to me, so I leave it to those who get it.
Do you have a retirement or pension plan?
I like to think my retirement plan is still under creative development – much like my morning routine.
What was the last thing you bought, and was it good value for money?
The last thing I bought was a clap box, a simple but brilliant percussion instrument. It was great value for what it added musically, although I’ve since misplaced it, which definitely wasn’t part of the plan.
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Have you ever successfully saved up for a relatively big purchase?
Yes, I recently bought my dream home, something I’d been quietly working toward for years. It took patience and persistence, but finally having a front door that’s truly mine has made it all worthwhile.
Have you ever lost money?
Not that I’ve noticed, although to be fair, I’ve never had quite enough money lying around to lose in the first place.
Are you a gambler and, if so, have you ever had a big win?
I’m not much of a gambler, though I’ll play the lotto now and then. No wins so far, but that said, my hit song Wonderful Thing was featured in a National Lotto ad campaign, which brought in a very welcome stream of royalties.
What is your best habit when it comes to money? And your worst?
The best habit is probably imagining there’s money in my account, which keeps me optimistic. My worst habit is realising there isn’t, which is when reality catches up with imagination.
How much money do you have on you now?
I’m proud to be a bit old-school. Even though most people rely on Apple Pay and digital wallets, I like having cash in my pocket as a backup. There’s something reassuring about having physical money on hand, whether it’s for small purchases or just peace of mind.
In conversation with Tony Clayton-Lea
