New Music: Joshua Burnside

Meet the Northern Irish singer-songwriter on the verge of something big with his gorgeous experimental folk music.

Ticketmaster New Music is a carefully curated selection, showcasing artists we are expecting to make waves in the live music scene. Working closely with record labels, live event promoters and talent agents, our in-house experts handpick the most exciting emerging music.

Joshua Burnside is assembling the building blocks necessary to manufacture solo success in the music industry. He has a critically acclaimed record, millions of Spotify streams, backing from all the right radio DJs and a stand-out, award-winning live show. It’s only a matter of time until he makes an even bigger mark and truly puts his stamp on the UK music scene.

Joshua Burnside - Black Dog Sin

Watch this video on YouTube

There’s a timeless feel to Joshua Burnside’s music – the sound is reminiscent of artists from the past – yet there’s absolutely a place for it in 2019 and beyond. If it wasn’t for the Northern Irish twang in his voice occasionally breaking through, his origin would be difficult to place too. Burnside is from County Down in Northern Ireland, this is where he began his musical journey; writing and recording tracks from the comfort of his own home.

The young artist had undeniable songwriting and producing chops which led to him being discovered. Burnside’s heartfelt songs and powerful live performance made him one of the most exciting up-and-comers on Northern Ireland’s music scene.

It began with a high-quality and attention-grabbing debut album. The long shelf life of EPHRATA has resulted in continuous and impressive streaming numbers. The opening track Blood Drive has been streamed on Spotify just shy of nine million times since its release in 2017.

Joshua’s most recent release Wear Bluebells In Your Hair If You’re Goin That Way arrived this year and is a reissue of his 2013 EP. The release contains four brand new songs and a stunning acoustic version of Desert Wine. Important voices in the UK scene such as Lauren Laverne, Guy Garvey, Huw Stephens and more have championed Burnside’s work throughout his career.

The live scene has taken notice too; Joshua has commanded attention from crowds with breathtaking performances at The Great Escape and BBC’s Big Weekend. He was also the talk of Texas at last year’s SXSW, performing for Folk Alliance and the British Music Embassy. NPR chose him as one of the festival’s highlights and gave a glowing review.

At the time of writing, Joshua Burnside’s next move is a run of stripped-back University shows as well as a couple of headline gigs in the UK in November.

More essential tracks

Blood Drive

Joshua Burnside - Blood Drive [OFFICIAL VIDEO]