I was delighted to be asked to play a showcase for my new EP at a local songwriter group at The Barrow in St Asaph, as part of the Lighted Stage Songwriter Sessions.
It was the perfect setting to showcase songs from our new EP, and to share some of the journey that has brought the songs, and this release, into existence.
Performing these songs live in such an intimate room of my local songwriting peers and people who had turned up just to hear us play was energising. A fairly small room, but filled with attentive ears.
In addition to the group regulars, a few people had come down especially to hear us including one or two folks we’d not seen in many, many years. Singing alongside my sister always feels reassuring. She’s the icing on my musical cake. If I’m doing my thing and Linda’s singing harmonies, it always sweetens the sound, and helps me to relax and enjoy it.
I livestreamed the show to my Twitch channel and the recording is now on my Youtube channel, and embedded here for your convenience.
Support local songwriters
Several generous attendees supported my music by buying a CD after the show. Thank you!
Hey, talking of which, you can order one right here, or just get the download version.
Only Human: The Lockdown EP (Physical CD)
Minimum asking price £10, but you can also name your own price if you wish to support my music.
See below for track listing etc.
Only Human: The Lockdown EP (Download only)
Minimum asking price £5, but you can also name your own price if you wish to further support my music.
See below for track listing etc.
Songwriter Sessions in Denbighshire
The Lighted Stage Songwriter Sessions have been running regularly in The Barrow pub in St Asaph for a few years now, facilitated by husband and wife team Elaine and Bryan Walker. They also run other music events – check out their Facebook page.
This session is very different from regular open mic nights in some key ways. Whilst most open mic/folk club sessions tend to focus on a fairly continuous stream of performances, these songwriter sessions provide a great opportunity for discussion (expertly led by Elaine), for people to reflect on their creative processes, their inspirations, their goals, what’s holding them back, etc. We discuss topics that allow us to share more of ourselves, but also to deepen understanding and friendships. There’ll often be specific topics for discussion – for example the use of AI has arisen in recent times, as you might have predicted. Oh, and we also play songs too – it’s not all talking!
Reasons to attend the Lighted Stage Songwriter Sessions
Maybe you’ve heard of these sessions. Maybe you’ve thought about coming along.
Why these Songwriter Sessions Matter
It’s a space where songwriters of all levels can bring something half-finished, test an idea, or just talk about the challenges of writing. You’ll hear about the methods others use to spark creativity, and you’ll realise you’re not the only one who sometimes struggles with motivation or self-doubt.
A Supportive Creative Community
The beauty of this group is the safe environment it creates:
- A place where it’s fine to share something raw and unfinished.
- A community that celebrates creativity rather than competition.
- A chance to find new collaborators, or simply feel less alone in the writing process.
As much as we loved performing the new EP tracks, the real joy came from the conversations before and after — hearing others’ stories and experiences, swapping tips, and realising how much we can all learn from each other. There’s always something new to be found.
An Invitation
If you’re a songwriter in North Wales, I’d encourage you to come along to one of the Lighted Stage Songwriter Sessions. Whether you’re just starting out or have been writing for years, you’ll find support, inspiration, and plenty of motivation to keep going.
Music is meant to be shared — and sometimes the best sharing happens in small rooms, with people who really understand the craft.
Links
Photos: George Frost. George Frost – YouTube
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