A British folk singer-songwriter and fiddler, known for blending traditional English music with contemporary styles and energetic live performances.
Eliza Carthy, MBE, is a British folk musician extraordinaire, renowned for her captivating voice and masterful fiddle playing. With a career spanning over three decades, she has become a stalwart of the UK folk scene, earning her a Mercury Music Prize nomination not once, but twice.
Born on August 23, 1975, in Scarborough, North Yorkshire, England, Eliza Carthy was destined to follow in the footsteps of her folk-musician parents, Martin Carthy and Norma Waterson. Growing up on a farm surrounded by her extended family, music was an integral part of her life from a young age.
At just 13, Eliza formed the Waterdaughters with her mother, aunt Lal Waterson, and cousin Marry Waterson. This musical debut marked the beginning of a illustrious career that would take her to the pinnacle of the folk music world.
She has since worked with an array of esteemed artists, including Nancy Kerr, her parents as WatersonCarthy, and as part of the supergroup Blue Murder. Her solo work has garnered critical acclaim, with albums such as Red Rice and Anglicana showcasing her remarkable talent.
Eliza's contributions to folk music have been recognized with numerous awards and nominations. In 2003, she swept the boards at the Radio 2 Folk Awards, winning:
She was also the first traditional English musician to be nominated for a BBC Radio 3 Award for World Music in the same year for Anglicana.
Eliza has collaborated with a range of artists, including Billy Bragg and Wilco on the album Mermaid Avenue. She also recorded with Billy Bragg on the song "My Father's Mansions," which appeared on the Pete Seeger tribute album Where Have All the Flowers Gone? (1998).
In 2002, she participated in the tribute concert for Kirsty MacColl, "The Song's the Thing," alongside other esteemed artists.
Eliza Carthy's contribution to the world of folk music is undeniable. Her unique voice, masterful fiddle playing, and dedication to preserving traditional English music have made her a beloved figure in the UK folk scene.
As a testament to her influence, she was appointed Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) in 2014 for her services to folk music.
With a career spanning over three decades, Eliza Carthy continues to inspire and delight audiences with her music, leaving an indelible mark on the world of folk music.
85 Years Old
A British folk music legend, known for his innovative guitar playing and influential interpretations of traditional songs, inspiring generations of musicians.
52 Years Old
A renowned folk singer-songwriter and guitarist celebrated for her soulful, heartfelt vocals and poignant storytelling through traditional and original songs.
