Ellen Beth Abdi

Born and bred Mancunian Ellen Beth Abdi brings her own brand of wonky, soul-infused pop to The Bridgewater Hall in a special duo performance with her keyboard player James Davis (MYTBE, William KZ). As a graduate from the Royal Northern College of Music, EBA has been a stalwart of the Manchester music scene for years, touring and recording with legendary bands A Certain Ratio, New Order and performing as a backing vocalist at Wembley Stadium (supporting The Stone Roses) – all by the age of 26. As a producer, multi-instrumentalist and songwriter, Ellen has developed a dynamic sound over the years, dipping into ethereal, electronic pop/soul, potent lyrical themes, and alternative sound-worlds. 

Not a stranger to either the stage or studio, EBA’s collaborations have gained international critical support from the likes of; Jamie Cullum, Seattle’s KEXP, BBC Radio 2, Lauren Laverne and BBC Radio 6 (playlisting A Certain Radio ft Ellen Beth Abdi’s afrobeat inspired ‘Afrodizzy’ for 6 weeks). Ellen’s live performances in various bands have taken her across Europe including; Manchester International Festival, Glastonbury, Womad, Gilles Peterson’s ‘We Out Here’ and many more. Whilst also finding time to delve deeper into the electronic side of things, providing vocals and toplines for Werkha (First Word) and playing DJ sets at Warehouse Project, Bluedot and at a residency at YES with ACR. 

Growing up in Chorlton, Ellen drew on her wide range of musical influences sparked by her Dad’s record collection, taking up piano at 6, flute a little later and attending Chorlton High Arts school – EBA has been perfecting her craft for over ten years.

Fresh from finishing her debut release and with a collaboration with Ellen Beth Abdi x Low Four Studio X The Hallé Orchestra and Youth Choir happening this year, 2023 is set to be a big one.