Simon Kempston has been writing songs from an early age, having originally been drawn to songwriting after being inspired by a love for the music of Bruce Springsteen, Mark Knopfler and John Martyn. Simon’s original, distinctive guitar playing is founded upon a complex, finger-picking style steeped in the history of the folk, blues and celtic traditions and is complemented by a rich, powerful and unique vocal. Since emerging on the local acoustic scene in Edinburgh in 2006 Simon has been quietly forming an enviable reputation as a performer to listen out for across his native Scotland.

An award-winning songwriter and an inspiring, poetic lyricist, Simon’s songs are amongst the most thought-provoking you are likely to hear, often sidestepping the usual themes of love and attraction in favour of offering social commentary and an insight into the everyday lives of people. His love of Celtic landscape coupled with his travels abroad, particularly in Eastern Europe, has also influenced many of his lyrics. Fascinations with architecture and English literature from a young age have further helped in the development of his unique lyrical style. However, it is in live performance that Simon’s true passion for music shines through. A powerful and intense live performer Simon has previously had the good fortune to appear on bills with amongst others, acts like Luka Bloom, Hayseed Dixie, Martin Simpson and Martin Stephenson.

However, it is in live performance that Simon’s true passion for music shines through. A powerful and intense live performer Simon has previously had the good fortune to appear on bills with, amongst others, acts like Martin Simpson, Archie Fisher, Martin Stephenson and Haysed Dixie. Within the past year, Simon has also performed in a variety of esteemed venues, folk clubs and festivals across Scotland including a string of dates at the world famous St. Giles Cathedral at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, Cabaret Voltaire, the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall (Celtic Connections), the Moniaive and Loch Lomond Folk Festivals and the Glasgow Jazz Festival. Simon has also performed to critical acclaim across England, Ireland and Scandinavia.

After selling out a series of three largely solo CDs/EPs Simon has recently released the album ‘Carefree Prisoner’ with the talented ensemble of musicians he has assembled on his own Self-Portrait Records label. The album has been well received by reviewers and radio stations alike. To promote the album, Simon has already undertaken tours of Scotland, England and Ireland/Northern Ireland in 2010 and has a host of dates lined up throughout the year, as well as commencing work on a follow-up. Copies of ‘Carefree Prisoner’ are available directly from this website, independent records stores across Scotland, at live performances and can be downloaded from iTunes, Napster etc.