Bromyard Folk Music Festival 2025

Bromyard Folk Festival

11th-14th September 2025

Category: Sat 13:00 Shanty Session

  • Graeme Knights

    Graeme Knights

    Graeme comes from a long line of singers, spanning six generations within his family, showcasing a rich singing tradition. His own active involvement in folk music extends over a period of about 40 years.

    Graeme enjoyed a prominent position within the group “Landlocked” for six years, and he spent over 15 years collaborating with Jim Mageean. While he is renowned for his renditions of shanties, his repertoire extends far beyond that, encompassing a wide range of genres including traditional love songs, mining songs, gospel music, drinking songs, and music hall tunes. Additionally, he incorporates some more contemporary compositions, many of which feature enjoyable and singable choruses.

    Graeme’s deep baritone voice has a magnetic quality that invites the audience to participate in the singing, and his delivery and stage presence create unforgettable evenings for his listeners. Notably, his experiences with the Jubilee Sailing Trust have lent extra passion and enthusiasm to his rendition of his signature song, “Don’t disable me,” making it all the more impactful.

  • Shady Tann-Watson

    Shady Tann-Watson

    Shady Tann-Watson is a vibrant and passionate figure in the English folk scene, whose deep connection to traditional music runs through her veins. Having been immersed in folk culture even before she was born, Shady’s upbringing was steeped in the songs, stories, and communal spirit that define the genre. It’s no surprise that she first took to the stage at the tender age of five, showcasing a natural talent for singing that has only grown stronger with time.

    Shady is best known for her powerful, rousing performances that bring audiences together in song. Often found leading late-night chorus sessions, tankard in hand, she embodies the communal spirit of folk music, where the lines between performer and audience blur, and everyone becomes part of the experience. Her love for these moments of shared music-making is evident in the way she commands a room, encouraging all to join in, regardless of their musical ability. Shady’s voice, rich and full of life, cuts through the night, inviting everyone to be part of the chorus and creating unforgettable memories for those lucky enough to be there.

    In addition to her late-night singalongs, Shady has a deep repertoire of traditional songs that she delivers with authenticity and heart. Her performances are a celebration of the folk tradition, breathing new life into old songs while staying true to their roots. Whether performing a haunting ballad or a lively tune, Shady brings a warmth and sincerity to her music that resonates with audiences of all ages.