George Ezra

George Ezra Barnett is a British singer-songwriter from Bristol, United Kingdom. Born in 1993, he grows up in Hertford, England, and later moves to Bristol in 2011 to study music at BIMM. His father is an art teacher, and his younger brother Ethan Barnett also performs as Ten Tonnes.

Style and influences

Ezra’s songs are known for a deep, blues-tinged and mournful sound. His work draws on folk and indie influences and is also associated with alternative rock, blues, indie pop and indie rock. He cites artists such as Bob Dylan and Woody Guthrie among his influences. BBC Bristol describes him as having “the voice of a 50 year old”.

Early releases and breakthrough

He releases his debut EP, Did You Hear the Rain?, in 2013, followed by Cassy O' in 2014. His first studio album, Wanted on Voyage, appears in 2014 and becomes the third best-selling album in the UK that year. His second album, Staying at Tamara’s, follows in 2018 and takes its title from the apartment in Barcelona where he writes it.

Festival appearances and recognition

Ezra appears on the Introducing stage at Glastonbury in 2013 and places fifth in the BBC Sound of 2014 poll. His track “Budapest” is one of the songs most closely associated with his early sound.

Podcasts and other work

In 2018 he launches George Ezra & Friends, a podcast in which he interviews musicians including Ed Sheeran, Rag’n’Bone Man, Craig David, Hannah Reid of London Grammar and Ben Thatcher of Royal Blood. In 2019 he starts a second podcast, Phone A Friend, with his friend and schoolmate Ollie MN. The programme includes conversations about life and mental health.

Personal detail

He has a 1-inch scar on his forehead from running into a wall while studying at BIMM in Bristol.