Famous British Folk Singers

Van Morrison is a highly acclaimed singer-songwriter and musician from Northern Ireland with a recording career spanning seven decades. He began performing in the late 1950s and rose to fame as the lead singer of the Belfast R&B band Them. Known for hits like "Brown Eyed Girl" and albums such as Astral Weeks and Moondance, Morrison's music blends soul, rhythm and blues, Celtic tradition, and jazz influences. He has achieved commercial success in the UK and US, receiving multiple awards and inductions into music halls of fame.

George Ezra is an English musician known for his hit single "Budapest" and his successful debut studio album, Wanted on Voyage. His second album, Staying at Tamara's, also achieved commercial success, with singles like "Paradise" and "Shotgun" reaching high positions on the charts. He has won awards such as the Brit Award for British Male Solo Artist. Ezra's third studio album, Gold Rush Kid, continued his streak of UK chart success, reaching number one upon its release in June 2022.

Nick Drake was an English musician known for his exceptional skills as an acoustic guitarist. He signed to Island Records at a young age and released three albums during his career: Five Leaves Left, Bryter Layter, and Pink Moon. Despite not achieving widespread popularity during his lifetime, Drake's music received critical acclaim and gained recognition posthumously. He struggled with depression and shied away from live performances. Drake's influence on various artists is significant, and his legacy continues to be celebrated through retrospectives and biographical works.

Sandy Denny was an English singer-songwriter known for her work with Fairport Convention and as a solo artist. She released four solo albums between 1971 and 1977 and collaborated with artists like Robert Plant. Denny's song "Who Knows Where the Time Goes?" has been covered by various musicians. Regarded as Britain's finest female singer-songwriter, her recorded work continues to be celebrated through reissues and previously unreleased material. Rolling Stone magazine ranked her as one of the greatest singers of all time in 2023.

Al Stewart is a Scottish-born singer-songwriter and folk-rock musician who gained prominence during the British folk revival of the 1960s and 1970s. Known for his unique blend of folk-rock music and historical storytelling, Stewart achieved commercial success with hits like "Year of the Cat" and "Time Passages". With a discography spanning 16 studio albums and collaborations with notable musicians, Stewart continues to tour extensively worldwide. His independent label, Wallaby Trails Recordings, released his most recent album, "Uncorked", in 2009, showcasing his enduring presence in the music industry.

Passenger, known as Michael David Rosenberg, is an English indie folk singer, songwriter, and musician. He initially fronted a band under the same name before transitioning to a successful solo career. His hit song "Let Her Go" achieved global success and remains one of his most popular tracks. With a total of 14 studio albums released, Passenger has established himself as a prolific artist in the music industry. His latest album, "Birds That Flew and Ships That Sailed," was launched in April 2022.

Richard Thompson is an English singer, songwriter, and guitarist known for his influential career in folk rock music. He gained prominence as the lead guitarist and songwriter for Fairport Convention in the late 1960s before launching a successful solo career. Collaborating with his wife Linda Thompson, they produced acclaimed albums. Thompson's solo work has garnered critical acclaim, Grammy nominations, and awards. He is recognized for his virtuoso guitar skills, sharp songwriting, and emotionally charged performances, with his influence extending to a wide range of musicians.

Laura Marling is an accomplished English folk singer-songwriter known for her introspective and evocative music. She gained recognition by winning the Brit Award for Best British Female Solo Artist in 2011 and receiving multiple nominations in subsequent years. Marling began her music career at a young age and released several critically acclaimed albums, earning Mercury Music Prize nominations for her work. Her songwriting delves into themes of sex, relationships, womanhood, and trauma, showcasing her depth and artistry in the folk music genre.

Ewan MacColl, an English folk singer-songwriter, folk song collector, labour activist, and actor, played a significant role in the 1960s folk revival. He is renowned for composing songs like "The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face" and "Dirty Old Town." MacColl collected numerous traditional folk songs, including an iconic version of "Scarborough Fair." Collaborating with notable artists, he released many albums primarily featuring traditional folk songs. A committed communist, MacColl also composed numerous left-wing political songs and actively participated in political activism throughout his career.

Vashti Bunyan is an English singer-songwriter known for her unique folk music style. She began her career in the mid-1960s and released her debut album, Just Another Diamond Day, in 1970. Despite initially low sales, the album gained a cult following over the years. Encouraged by the renewed interest, Bunyan re-entered the music scene in 2000, releasing more albums such as Lookaftering in 2005 and Heartleap in 2014. Her career experienced a resurgence after a thirty-year hiatus, solidifying her place in the folk music genre.

Ronnie Lane was an influential English musician and songwriter known for his role as the bassist and co-founder of the rock bands Small Faces and Faces. He formed Small Faces in 1965 with Steve Marriott and co-wrote several hit singles. After transitioning to Faces, Lane continued to achieve critical and commercial success before pursuing a solo career. Throughout his career, he collaborated with various musicians and bands, leaving a lasting impact on the rock music scene. Lane's contributions led to his posthumous induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2012.

Kate Rusby is an English folk singer-songwriter known for her captivating performances at British folk festivals. Dubbed the "Barnsley Nightingale", she is recognized as one of the most prominent contemporary English folk singers. Her talent has earned her the title of a superstar in the British acoustic scene by The Guardian, and she is hailed as the first lady of young folkies by the BBC. Rusby's exceptional artistry has even led to a nomination for the prestigious Mercury Prize, highlighting her influence and contributions to the folk music genre.

Philip Coulter is an accomplished Irish musician, songwriter, and record producer known for his impressive achievements and accolades in the music industry. With a prolific career spanning several decades, he has received numerous prestigious awards such as Gold Badge from the British Academy of Songwriters, Composers and Authors, multiple platinum, gold, and silver discs, Grand Prix Eurovision awards, Ivor Novello Awards, American Society of Composers, Authors and Publishers awards, and a Grammy Nomination. Coulter's notable compositions include hits like "The Town I Loved So Well", "Puppet on a String", and "Congratulations", solidifying his reputation as one of the most successful record sellers in Ireland.

Beth Gibbons is an accomplished English singer-songwriter best known for her work as the singer and lyricist for the band Portishead. Throughout her career, she has released multiple albums both with Portishead and in collaboration with other musicians, showcasing her versatile vocal abilities and emotive storytelling. Gibbons has also ventured into solo projects, releasing albums that highlight her unique musical style and artistic expression. Her collaborations with various artists and orchestras demonstrate her passion for exploring different genres and pushing creative boundaries.

Dewey Bunnell is an accomplished musician, singer, guitarist, and songwriter known for his contributions as a founding member of the band America. With a career spanning decades, Bunnell has showcased his musical talents through his work with the band, demonstrating a unique blend of folk, rock, and pop influences. His distinctive voice and guitar skills have helped shape the sound of America, leading to numerous successful albums and performances that have solidified his reputation as a talented and influential figure in the music industry.

Mike Harding is a versatile and talented individual with a diverse professional background. He is an English singer, songwriter, comedian, author, poet, broadcaster, and multi-instrumentalist. Additionally, Harding has experience as a photographer, traveller, film maker, and playwright. His career showcases his creativity and passion for various forms of art and entertainment. With his wide range of skills and experiences, Harding has made significant contributions to the worlds of music, comedy, literature, broadcasting, and visual arts.

Julie Driscoll Tippett is an accomplished English singer and actress with a notable career in the music industry. She is recognized for her collaborative work with renowned musician Brian Auger and her husband, Keith Tippett. Julie gained prominence for her distinctive vocal style and dynamic performances, solidifying her reputation as a versatile artist. Throughout her career, she has captivated audiences with her powerful voice and artistic contributions, leaving a lasting impact on the music scene with her talent and creativity.

Ralph McTell is an English singer-songwriter and guitar player who has been influential in the UK folk music scene since the 1960s. He is best known for his iconic song "Streets of London," which has been covered by numerous artists worldwide. McTell drew inspiration from American country blues guitarists and developed a distinctive guitar style. He is also skilled in playing piano and harmonica. McTell gained commercial success with "Streets of London" in 1974 and has continued to create music, including compositions for TV programs.

Maddy Prior is an accomplished English folk rock singer known for her role as the lead vocalist of Steeleye Span. She co-founded the group in 1969 and has released numerous singles and albums as a solo artist and collaborator. Prior has also been part of various musical duos and groups, including Mac & Maddy and Silly Sisters with June Tabor. She left Steeleye Span in 1997 but returned in 2002, continuing to tour with them. Additionally, she has been involved in other musical projects and operates an Arts Centre called Stones Barn in Cumbria.

Jake Thackray was an English singer-songwriter, poet, humorist, and journalist known for his topical comedy songs in the late 1960s and early 1970s. His work encompassed satire, bawdy humor, sentimentality, and pastoral themes, characterized by strong storytelling. Thackray's baritone voice, nylon-strung guitar style blending classical and jazz elements, and witty, clipped lyrics with a Yorkshire accent set him apart. Often likened to the "North Country Noël Coward," Thackray drew inspiration from French chansonnier tradition, notably Georges Brassens, Jacques Brel, and Charles Trenet, as well as American songwriter Randy Newman. Thackray's influence extended to various artists, including Jarvis Cocker, Alex Turner, Morrissey, and Jasper Carrott.

Ella Edmondson is an English singer-songwriter known for her proficiency in playing the guitar and piano. She has established herself as a talented musician in the industry, showcasing her skills through her original songs and performances. Edmondson's professional career revolves around creating and sharing her music with audiences, drawing inspiration from various genres and influences. With a focus on songwriting and musical expression, she continues to captivate listeners with her unique style and heartfelt compositions.

Cat Stevens, also known as Yusuf, is a British singer-songwriter and musician with a diverse musical style encompassing folk, rock, pop, and Islamic music. He has achieved significant commercial success, selling over 100 million records and earning multiple certifications for his albums. Stevens has received prestigious awards for promoting peace and humanitarian efforts. After a hiatus focused on religious music, he returned to secular music in 2006, releasing new albums and embarking on successful tours, solidifying his legacy as a respected artist in the music industry.

John Tams is a versatile English actor, singer, songwriter, composer, and musician. He has a diverse professional background, including work as a reporter for various news outlets and contributions to the music industry. Tams is recognized for his role in the ITV drama series Sharpe and his music compositions for numerous films. He has been a part of different folk groups and bands, showcasing his talent as a singer and musician. Tams has received accolades for his performances and musical collaborations over the years.

Dana Gillespie is an English actress, singer, and songwriter with a prolific career spanning several decades. She has recorded over 70 albums and has appeared in stage productions like Jesus Christ Superstar, as well as in various films. Throughout her career, Gillespie's musical style has evolved from teen pop and folk to rock in the 1970s and eventually to the blues. Known for her versatility and talent, she has established herself as a respected figure in the music industry.

June Tabor is an accomplished English folk singer renowned for her solo career and collaborations with notable artists such as Maddy Prior and Oysterband. With a career spanning several decades, she has garnered a reputation for her distinctive voice and emotive performances. Tabor's contributions to the folk music scene have been widely acclaimed, earning her a loyal following and critical acclaim. Her work showcases a deep connection to traditional music while also pushing boundaries and exploring new sounds.

John Martyn, a British guitarist and singer-songwriter, had a prolific 40-year career during which he released 23 studio albums and garnered widespread critical acclaim. Beginning as a key figure in the Scottish folk scene, Martyn drew inspiration from American blues and English traditional music. He signed with Island Records and evolved his sound to incorporate jazz and rock elements, experimenting with guitar effects and tape delay machines. Despite personal challenges, he continued to release albums and collaborate with notable figures until his passing in 2009.

Fink, also known as Fin Greenall, is a versatile English artist excelling as a singer, songwriter, guitarist, producer, and disc jockey. His career initially focused on electronic music, with international DJ performances and the release of his debut album "Fresh Produce." Transitioning to a trio format in 2006, Fink, along with Guy Whittaker and Tim Thornton, has continued to create and perform music. Collaborations with renowned artists like John Legend and Amy Winehouse showcase Fink's songwriting prowess, while his recent albums are released under his independent label, R'COUP'D Records.

Ed Sheeran is an English singer-songwriter known for his chart-topping albums and hit singles. He gained popularity with his debut album "+", which included the successful single "The A Team". Sheeran's subsequent albums, such as "×" and "÷", further solidified his global success with multiple award wins and record-breaking achievements. With over 150 million records sold worldwide, Sheeran is recognized as one of the best-selling music artists. He continues to release successful albums and singles, maintaining a strong presence in the music industry.

Steve Tilston is a renowned English folk singer-songwriter and guitarist known for his contributions to the folk music scene. With a career spanning several decades, he has released numerous albums and performed at various music festivals and venues around the world. Tilston is respected for his thoughtful lyrics, intricate guitar playing, and captivating performances. He has influenced many in the folk music community and continues to be a prominent figure in the industry, showcasing his talent and passion for music.

Lauren Aquilina is a talented Maltese-English singer and songwriter. She rose to fame by independently releasing a trilogy of EPs (Fools, Sinners, and Liars) while still in school. Her debut album Isn't It Strange? was launched in 2016 after signing with Island Records and Universal Music Group. Following a brief break in 2016, she returned to the music scene in 2018. Aquilina's career showcases her exceptional musical abilities and her ability to captivate audiences with her heartfelt lyrics and soulful voice.

Peter Eardley Sarstedt was a British singer-songwriter and instrumentalist known for his pop music that incorporated ballads inspired by traditional folk music. His most famous song, "Where Do You Go To (My Lovely)?" reached the top of the UK Singles Chart in 1969. Although he had one more hit single and album, he did not achieve the same level of chart success again. Sarstedt released the album England's Lane in 1997, which continued the story of a fictional character. He retired in 2010 due to health issues after continuing to tour in 1960s revival-type shows.

Lianne La Havas is a British singer-songwriter and record producer known for her soulful vocals and unique sound. Her career took off after signing with Warner Bros. Records in 2010 and releasing her debut album "Is Your Love Big Enough?" in 2012, which received critical acclaim. She has since released two more studio albums, "Blood" in 2015 and "Lianne La Havas" in 2020. Throughout her career, she has been recognized with nominations for prestigious awards such as the Grammy and Brit Awards. Currently based in London, she continues to captivate audiences with her music.

Anne Briggs is an English folk singer known for her influential role in the British folk revival. Despite not seeking commercial success, she traveled extensively in the 1960s and early 1970s, performing at folk clubs in Britain and Ireland. Her music served as a source of inspiration for notable artists such as A. L. Lloyd, Bert Jansch, Jimmy Page, The Watersons, June Tabor, Sandy Denny, Richard Thompson, and Maddy Prior. Briggs' contributions to the folk music scene have left a lasting impact on the industry.

Maggie Reilly is a Scottish singer celebrated for her collaborations with composer Mike Oldfield. She gained prominence as the lead vocalist on several of Oldfield's hit songs in the early 1980s, including "Family Man", "Moonlight Shadow", "To France", and "Foreign Affair". Reilly's distinctive voice and emotive delivery played a crucial role in the success of these international chart-topping tracks. Her professional career has been defined by her contributions to the music industry through these iconic collaborations with Mike Oldfield.

Teddy Thompson is an accomplished English folk and rock musician who released his debut album in 2000. With a career spanning over two decades, he has established himself as a respected artist in the music industry. Known for his unique blend of folk and rock influences, Thompson's music showcases his exceptional songwriting skills and emotive vocals. He has garnered a loyal fanbase and critical acclaim for his work, solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile musician.

Thea Gilmore, also known as Afterlight, is an accomplished English singer-songwriter with a prolific career spanning over two decades. Since her debut album "Burning Dorothy" in 1998, she has released over twenty albums, showcasing her versatile musical talent. With three top 40 entries on the UK Albums Chart and one on the UK Singles Chart, Gilmore has established herself as a respected artist in the music industry. Her most recent album under the moniker Afterlight was released in October 2021, further solidifying her reputation as a dedicated and innovative musician.

Lucy Rose Parton is an accomplished English singer-songwriter known for her critically acclaimed music. She made her debut with the successful album "Like I Used To" in 2012 and has continued to impress with subsequent releases that have all entered the UK Albums Chart. In January 2020, she founded her own record label, Real Kind Records, under the Communion Music imprint. Her latest studio album, "This Ain't The Way You Go Out," released in April 2024, showcases her ongoing growth and success in the music industry.

Mike Waterson was an English writer, songwriter, and folk singer best known as a member of The Watersons. He also released a solo album and was part of the original Albion Country Band. Waterson collaborated with various musicians, such as Martin Carthy and Shirley Collins, and made guest appearances on albums by other artists. His contributions to folk music include recordings with The Watersons, solo work, and collaborations with different bands and artists. Waterson's career spanned several decades and he left a lasting impact on the folk music scene.

Bob Copper, a renowned British singer, was a folk music legend known for his unique style of a capella singing. He contributed significantly to preserving traditional folk songs by writing them down alongside his family. His professional achievements include being awarded the Gold Badge of the English Folk Dance and Song Society, a recognition of his outstanding contributions to the folk music genre. Through his work, Bob Copper left a lasting legacy in the world of folk music, inspiring future generations of musicians and preserving cultural heritage.

Frankie Armstrong is an English singer, voice teacher, and key figure in the natural voice movement. With a diverse repertoire spanning traditional ballads, music-hall, and contemporary songs, she has been actively involved in the folk scene and women's movement. As a voice coach, she has worked with theatrical groups, including the National Theatre, and has collaborated with various musicians and bands. Armstrong's focus on women's lives and her contributions to folk and political songs showcase her impactful career in music and vocal training.

Bob Roberts was a versatile British professional known for his diverse talents. He was a renowned folk singer, songwriter, storyteller, bargeman, author, and journalist. Notably, he held the distinction of being the last captain of a British commercial vessel that operated under sail, marking the end of a longstanding maritime tradition. His career was marked by a deep connection to the sea and a passion for preserving the history and heritage of sailing vessels, making him a significant figure in British maritime history.

A. L. Lloyd, also known as Bert Lloyd, was a prominent English folk singer and folk song collector central to the British folk revival of the 1950s and 1960s. Apart from his significant contribution to British folk music, he also had a deep interest in the music of Spain, Latin America, Southeastern Europe, and Australia. Lloyd recorded multiple albums focusing on Australian Bush ballads and folk music. He played a pivotal role in establishing industrial folk music as a subgenre through his writings, recordings, and music collections.

Louis Killen was an influential English folk singer known for forming one of the UK's first folk clubs in Newcastle upon Tyne in 1958. He later moved to the USA and became a key member of The Clancy Brothers, contributing to the band's success until the mid-1970s. Killen's talent and passion for folk music earned him recognition as a skilled performer and a significant figure in the folk music scene of his time, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.