Ali Warren

Ali Warren

Ali Warren is a UK singer-songwriter from Somerset and London, born in 1988. Raised in Taunton, Somerset, he develops a style shaped by folk, blues and acoustic music, with lyrical writing and a singing voice described as a rich croon rather than a shouted delivery. His stated musical influences range from Fela Kuti and Doris Day to blues figures such as Leadbelly, Robert Johnson and John Lee Hooker.

Background

Warren grows up in Taunton and initially wants to become a saxophonist, but cannot afford an instrument. He later turns to guitar after becoming absorbed in blues music and spends time in London, where he moves with very little. He describes himself as having been angry for much of his life, and his songs reflect that intensity.

At university, he remains cautious about music becoming, in his words, a trade rather than a form of expression. He plays support slots and open-mic events around London, then gathers the songs he has been performing into the EP Good Morning I’ve Taken My Medicine.

Band and other activity

Warren performs with a full band that includes guitarist Reck, bassist Dan Blatchford, drummer Paul Love and cellist Miriam Wakeling. He also runs the London club night Stroke Your Beard with Dan Runciman, with the aim of creating a community where listeners pay attention to the music.

Current work

He is working on a full album and wants to tour it widely once completed.