“Top 100 Tunes from Scotland 2021” –– The Herald
“Undisputed act of the festival” –– Ticketmaster
BIO
Scottish singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Nicky Murray’s evocative lyrics, raspy vocals and deft fingerpicking create a spellbinding lyricism. His sincerity and authenticity shine through, allowing him to connect with listeners immediately. Nicky began to make a name for himself in 2014 following the release of his debut album 'Plenty More Weeping’ which launched his musical career and led him to tour and collaborate with a wide array of top artists over the next four years. These include Martin Stephenson, JJ Gilmour, Elephant Sessions, Kathryn Joseph, Peatbog Faeries, Dave Sharp, Brittany & Natalie Haas, and Duncan Chisholm among others.
Following those years focused on extensive live performance, Nicky moved to the Scottish Highlands where he wrote and recorded his sophomore record 'Wintermore' (2018). This acoustic folky record of original songs explores heart and features renowned folk musicians Patsy Reid, Chloë Bryce, Emma Gillespie, Rachel Sermanni and Chloe Rodgers. He took ‘Wintermore’ on the road performing it widely, including two double-headline UK tours with songwriter Moteh Parrott. During this period, Nicky was also the Artistic Director of Sofar Sounds Inverness (2017-2020).
Nicky moved back to Glasgow in 2020 where he recorded and self-released 7 singles, collaborating with some of the finest musicians. Nicky embarked on a more synth-folk route with these releases (think Bon Iver/Sufjan Stevens). The first single ’Atypical’ was written about the Netflix show of the same name and features singer Emma Gillespie on harmonies. The song caught Michael Rappaport’s attention, who loved it and shared it with the show’s cast. Next came 'Song for Sara' a song written for the loss of a close friend which featured renowned drummer James Mackintosh (Transatlantic Sessions) and Kaela Rowan (Shooglenifty). The third single ‘Songbird’ was a collaboration with Boston based bluegrass musicians Louise Bichan and Ethan Setiawan followed by ‘Sisterhood of Man’ featuring in-demand drummer Calum McIntyre (Karine Polwart/Kris Drever/Adam Holmes). 'It is So' features folk-pop singer Zoe Graham on harmonies, and the final single 'It Was My Heart’ features rising light Katie Gregson-MacLeod on vocals. Nicky has just returned home from an extensive UK Winter tour supporting Martin Stephenson and the Dainties, also sharing the stage with Tom Robinson. He is currently working on his third record 'How Long' which is scheduled for release in May 2024.