About Maddie
Folk songs have always told stories, but how Maddie makes their mark is by turning this storytelling into action. Describing them as "leading the next generation of socially conscious songwriters" is born out on this single. "They take traditional song in new directions to shine a light on contemporary issues, offering new perspectives about the world we live in today". The first single from an EP to be called 'Upstream' they have a distinctive, fresh singing style that sits with the sparse guitar, strings, and piano backing. More proof that folk based singer songwriting is thriving in 2022.
-Fatea Magazine Website
Maddie Morris is an artist who strives to make a difference in the world. Bold, insightful and refreshingly unique, they take traditional song in new directions to shine a light on contemporary issues, offering new perspectives about the world we live in today. After graduating with a first-class honours degree from Leeds Conservatoire, Maddie soon made waves by winning the 2019 BBC Radio 2 Young Folk Award, as well as landing a grant from the Alan Surtees Trust. From these firm foundations, their career has gone from strength to strength, with recent performances including Cropredy and Cambridge Folk Festival.
Folk songs have always told stories, but how Maddie makes their mark is by turning this storytelling into action. Described by Jim Moray as “leading the next generation of socially conscious songwriters”, they use their work to highlight inequality, challenge viewpoints and provide an inclusive space for shared experiences. They were recently commissioned by Rural Arts to explore LGBTQIA+ experiences through traditional music, and has also been proud to collaborate with organisations such as Queer Folk, Esperance and Trans Pride Brighton.
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Whether they’re turning a centuries-old ballad on its head or writing something completely new, Maddie places their focus on drawing out true meaning rather than being true to tradition. From tweaking tunings to adding ornamentation, they’re never afraid to put their own stamp on things and create something distinctively their own.
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Maddie released their first studio EP Upstream in 2022 to huge critical acclaim. Two years on, they’re following this up with their debut studio album, Skin, (release February 2024) is a beautifully crafted collection of songs which amplifies the stories of those often marginalised by society. Passionately political, yet gently understated, this is music that deftly treads the path between art and activism.
'Maddie Morris is an extremely accomplished young singer - not just the possessor of a haunting and delicately ornamented vocal style, but also a performer with serious insight into how to tell a story in song. Traditional ballads or inclusive social commentary - they always connect with the deepest meaning in their material. Not to be missed by any audience wanting to hear something new and passionate.
- Nancy Kerr
“Maddie's voice is extraordinary and matched with their beguiling guitar playing they can't possibly go wrong. For such a young performer their lyrics are wise beyond their years. Our small rural village hall audience was enraptured throughout the evening. I can't wait to hear her again” - Castle Carrock
'Singers don't win awards for no reason. Maddie has a voice like liquid gold. It weaves and flows around their choice of the most gorgeous songs, leaving you feeling content with the world but wanting more from Maddie Morris. Their friendly chat gives you just enough information to engage with the songs. Definitely, one to watch!'
- Morag Butler - Rosslyn Court
“Maddie gave a warm smile, took a deep breath...and sang. Instantly we were all mesmerised by that beautiful voice and the audience was wrapped in their lyrical music and endearing personality”
-Harrogate Folk Club