"You won't hear better songs than those anywhere this year." - Clive Gregson "Good songs, great lyrics." - Steve Tilston "We've got her album, it's really good." - Megson "She held the audience captivated... with her beautiful songs" - Maverick magazine Dorset-based singer-songwriter Lou Brown is beginning to build a following among roots and acoustic fans for her personal blend of country, folk, and pop. Her catalogue of original material is extensive: from catchy melodies such as 'Jimmy Joe', 'Don't Go Out There', and 'If You Make Up Your Mind', to well-crafted ballads like 'Goodbye', 'These Arms', and 'Thinking About You Lately'. It isn't surprising that many of Lou's songs are already fast becoming standards both locally and further afield. Her use of multiple capo placings - both partial and regular - create unique altered tunings that give her songs an original and striking quality. This, combined with a wonderfully husky yet distinct vocal range make her a force to be reckoned with. In 2003 Lou Brown was presented with the South-west's Young Achiever of the Year Award, and subsequently won a grant from the Prince's Trust to fund her début recording. She also took part in the Prince's Trust's 'Soundlive' programme, where she was offered the valuable opportunity to learn skills from professional working musicians. The album that came from this, 'What Are You Singing About?' was released on Lou Brown Music in 2007. This eagerly awaited collection of songs finally satisfied those avid Lou Brown fans that, until then had had to make do with following Lou from gig to gig, faithfully hollering out the lyrics, and agreeing that they too want to do it 'The Old Way'. The CD's popularity saw it chart in the Top 30 of one national entertainment retailer, along with airplay on popular UK radio stations such as Wave 105, Forest FM, Original FM, and BBC Radio Bristol, Gloucestershire, Solent, Somerset, and Southern Counties. In addition to extensive and successful UK headline performances – both as a solo artist and with The Lou Brown Band – Lou has taken her music internationally. March 2008 saw Lou fly out to the USA for her first American CD promotional tour, signing and performing in major music stores and selected venues around Illinois and Iowa. The album has also seen her acknowledged by her peers, getting invites for high-profile support slots with a list of great musicians: Hazel O'Conner, Paul Young, Boo Hewerdine, Steve Tilston, Clive Gregson, Julie Fowlis, Po' Girl, Megson, and the legendary Albert Lee. Lou hasn't been resting on her laurels, and late 2008 saw a return to the studio with top producer Alan Hill. Packed with contributions from local musicians Lou has known over the years, the new album has a big, radio-friendly sound. With mixing and mastering taking place in early 2009, fans can look forward to a Summer/Autumn release. 2009 will also see planning for a return to the USA. As a result of the song 'Thinking About You Lately' being added to the playlist of a radio station in California, CD Baby sold out of 'What Are You Singing About?', so a series of West Coast gigs is in the pipeline. Lou's website is well-visited, and her blog & newsletter – as honest, personal, and heartfelt as her songs – are must-reads. You can also listen to a selection of her songs, link to her Youtube channel and view live videos (plus Clive Gregson covering one of Lou's songs), read more about her, and much more.