Nicky Swann is a UK singer-songwriter from Devon. Her music draws on folk, blues and country, and her performances are described as warm, soulful and spiritually tinged. Her songs focus on themes of love, hope and death, and she is known for an emotionally direct delivery.

Background

Swann begins as part of a long-running covers duo with a guitarist, before the pair split in 2006. After trying and failing to find a replacement guitarist, she takes on the guitar role herself, expands her basic three-chord playing, and returns to gigging within six months. She then starts writing new material and relaunches herself as a singer-songwriter.

Influences and style

She names Paul Weller, Carole King and Janis Joplin as her main influences. Her work brings together elements of folk, blues and country, with a strong emphasis on heartfelt vocal delivery.

Reception

Swann builds a growing reputation as a live performer through songs delivered with emotional honesty and a direct connection with audiences.