We may devote most of our editorial space to North American artists, but we’re always on the lookout for music from across the Commonwealth to share on GDW. Here are four great tunes by some amazing ladies from across the pond, and while they may not all be hot off the press, we absolutely insist that you take some time to enjoy these four selections here today.
Say Anise, “One”
UK-based Richard Clark has been part of the GDW family for several years now, and we love having representation across the pond. Richard first introduced us to London-based Say Anise (Emily Barnett) in the summer of 2022, and we’ve actively followed this emerging artist’s career since. From her latest double EP, Emily shares this gorgeous track – one she describes as “a little song about falling in love with YOURSELF.”
Rose Betts, “Irish Eyes”
I recall discovering the music of London-based folk artist Rose Betts perhaps a little over a year ago, when her fun ditty “Driving Myself Home” landed on my listening radar. Not looking for any UK-based tunes at the time to share here, Rose’s name cropped up again recently courtesy of the US NPR website. Up-tempo in nature, this tune reminds me greatly of the contemporary folk music records spun at home when I was a youngster.
Katherine Priddy, “Does She Hold You Like I Did”
It was around this time last year when a good friend from the UK name-dropped Katherine during an exchange about emerging artists. Sampling a few tunes, Katherine impressed enough to be fast-tracked into one of our Wednesday video spots, earning some great feedback from GDW readers. This latest cut is set to appear on the Essex-based artist’s upcoming album, “The Pendulum Swing,” scheduled for release next month.
Rachel Croft, “I Won’t Turn You Away”
Another name-dropped artist from a while back – don’t ask me from whom or from when, as so many suggestions arrive here daily at GDW – I do recall Rachel’s fabulous single “Hurricane” from last year. With this most recent offering, the London-based alt-rock artist shows some vulnerability with this gorgeous slow burner of a ballad – somber and broody to start out, before unleashing the powerful rock elements we’ve come to expect.
The British guy that crossed the ocean and crash landed in central Pennsylvania (to quote Greg Keelor, “And I wonder what am I doing here?”). As the youngest of four siblings, exposure to music from a very early age nurtured my passion and appreciation for many musical genres. Continuing to discover some amazingly diverse and talented musicians based in Canada, I gravitate to live music experiences and remain devoted to spreading the word about such a vibrant music scene.
