Lesley Roley

Lesley Roley

Lesley Roley is a US singer-songwriter whose songs bring together folk, pop, blues and jazz. She is based in Newcastle and performs with a style that combines carefully arranged material with a clear, unaffected vocal delivery.

Musical style and songwriting

Her repertoire includes original songs that move between emotional and sharply comic writing. Pieces such as “Missing”, “Too Bad” and “Mr Sad” show contrasting sides of her songwriting, from poignant material to more acerbic humour. She also performs an unusual version of Björk’s “Hyperballad”, which is noted for its folk-led approach and distinctive interpretation.

Live performances

Roley performs with poise and humour on stage. She appears at sold-out shows at venues including Sage Gateshead and Warwick Arts Centre, where she supports John Smith and Madeleine Peyroux. She also tours Britain and Ireland with Don McLean in 2010, performing at venues including the Royal Albert Hall.

Recognition and recordings

Her recorded work attracts attention through polished songwriting and subtle arrangements. NARC magazine names her demo “Demo of the Month” in November, and her first and second EPs sell out regularly. A third EP is due for release in summer 2011.

Critical response

Newspaper coverage describes her voice as exceptionally pure and crystal clear, and another review calls her performance excellent and amusing. Her growing profile comes through both her Northern shows and an A&R showcase in Notting Hill.