Finlay

Finlay is a British singer, songwriter and musician. He is raised in the small village of Everingham in Yorkshire and begins by making performance videos online, building a small following while developing his writing and piano playing. His work grows out of an interest in film, literature and music, and his songs often explore philosophical and emotional themes through a youthful perspective.

A key collaboration in his development is with Yorkshire producer Jonathan Quarmby, whose chance encounter with Finlay leads to recording at RAK Studios in North London. Finlay spends time there completing a debut EP. His voice is described as combining classic and contemporary qualities, with music that sits comfortably across different periods while retaining a current feel.

Finlay’s earlier music is released through Growl Wow Records, including a single and an EP. He later signs to British independent label Fortuna POP!, which releases his two full-length albums. His band’s work is also noted for a lo-fi aesthetic, especially in the earlier recordings. Reviews include Kerrang! calling the debut a “ragged and wonderful” release, while UNCUT describes the sound as “heroic and inspired pop music tuned in from an unearthly frequency.”

The name is also used by other acts, including a five-piece indie rock band formed in East London in 1996 by school friends Adam Straw, Anamik Saha and Christopher Allison, with Lorna Crabbe joining in 1997 and Giles Littleford three years later, as well as an artist identified as Paige Finlay from Houston, Texas.