Martha Tilston

Martha Tilston

Martha Tilston is an English folk-based singer-songwriter and guitarist from Brighton, United Kingdom. Her work combines English and Irish folk influences with contemporary acoustic styles, and her lyrics often draw on personal, political, social and environmental themes.

Background

Tilston is the daughter of songwriter Steve Tilston and the step-daughter of singer Maggie Boyle. She begins writing songs at an early age and later attends drama school before starting her recording career.

Early projects

After drama school, she forms Mouse with guitarist Nick Marshall. The duo releases two albums, Helicopter Trees and Tales, and performs at many gigs and festivals across the UK and Ireland.

Solo career

Tilston’s solo debut, Rolling, is self-released in 2003, followed by Bimbling in 2004. In 2005 she assembles The Woods, including members of Semble, to record Ropeswing, which is distributed as a free download.

In 2006 she undertakes a full UK tour and releases Of Milkmaids And Architects, which earns a nomination for Best New Act at the BBC Folk Awards. She later releases Lucy And The Wolves, and supports Beth Nielsen Chapman on UK dates during the same period. Her album Machines of Love and Grace follows in 2012.