Music
Rising: Bethia Beadman talks influences and busking tips
Introducing another latest star performer as part of Ticketmaster Rising in association with Busk in London.
Say hello to our latest unsung artist brought to us by Busk in London; Bethia Beadman is the enchanting singer-songwriter who’s already caught the attention of Rolling Stone, Dazed and Confused, and The Quietus.
We get the lowdown on her influences, favourite venues and tips for new buskers…
What artists do you look to for inspiration?
“Leonard Cohen, Emmy Lou, Neil Young, Nick Cave, Karen Carpenter, Beth Gibbons and Lou Reed.”
What made you want to perform in public?
“It was unquestionable that I would do anything else!”
How do you prepare before a performance?
“Low humming on the tube so no one can hear”
Do you have any good luck charms that you have on you during a performance?
“I used to burn sage so the gig smelled good.”
Who did you look to for inspiration when starting out?
“Pink Floyd”
Do you suffer from stage fright and where does your confidence for performing come from?
“I did recently, but then that became part of the performance – burning through it to the other side.”
What are the best three places you’ve performed?
“The Union Chapel, The Roxy LA, and open air beneath Mt Tomorr in Albania.”
How would you describe your sound in three words?
“Impassioned, truthful and fabulous.”
If you could tour with any act, who would it be?
“The Dirty Three”
What is your dream venue to play?
“The Other Stage, Glastonbury, which faces the sunset!”
What’s the strangest thing that’s happened to you while busking?
“Making money. I busked with a harp throughout my childhood and danced on point in the street. But I was young and cute so it was easy. Later on I hair-wrapped and sold watermelon.”
Are there any other buskers who have caught your attention?
“There was a harp player in Bath called Micheal. My mother seemed to attribute significant life events to his appearance and disappearance.”
Have you any top tips for busking/live performance?
“A hot honey-ginger-lemon-whiskey flask”
What was the first record you bought?
“My Little Pony EP – bought for me actually. I liked the country song. It spelled out ‘B.O.W.T.I.E. I’m Bowtie, pretty as a picture’ and had slide guitar. Aside from that I went straight on to PJ Harvey.”
What is the most recent record you bought?
“The Delines”
What is the most recent gig you’ve attended?
“Dengue Fever”
What would be your advice to new artists starting out in busking?
“The street is your friend!”
For all things new talent, Ticketmaster Rising and Busk in London, head to Ticketmaster.co.uk/rising.