The legendary Camden Assembly continues to host London’s hottest grassroots music series ‘Beer and Busking’ throughout Sunday afternoons this December. Curated by the new-talent pioneers at Hot Vox, this acoustic series is not just vital in showcasing the finest emerging talents, but also in raising crucial funds for children in areas of conflict in association with War Child UK.
Each event sees four emerging talents take to the floor, performing 30-minutes of originals, classic covers and modern-day hits. At the free-to-enter Beer and Busking, guests are invited to show support of their favourite acts by leaving a tip in the digital ‘tip jar’ – via a QR code from their table – to help raise money for War Child UK.
Georgina Barrett, Music and Events Executive at War Child said,
“These events exemplify the heart and soul of charitable giving in the music community, demonstrating how collective efforts contribute to our crucial mission. At War Child, we understand the significance of these events in our fundraising initiatives. Every donation, big or small, plays a pivotal role in providing support to children affected by conflict. These contributions empower us to protect, educate, and stand up for the rights of children living in war zones. We’re immensely grateful for the ongoing support of Hot Vox and the artists.”
Beer and Busking on Sunday 3rd December welcomes vocalist and harpist Bianca Watts. She received a Masters with Distinction from the Guildhall School of Music & Drama and has gone on to showcase her unique performances at renowned venues, including Ronnie Scott’s and the Barbican. Also starring is Irish-born singer-songwriter and honorary Londoner, Annie Mae. She’s currently honing her talents at BIMM London and now gears up to stage for a performance of deep and meaningful songs from her budding repertoire.
Joining them is SouthWest of England native, singer-songwriter, Katie Ember; expect influences of Dolly Parton’s upbeat country ballads and Lily Allen’s quirky comedy in Ember’s country-pop performance. Completing the bill on December 3rd is Yorkshire solo artist, Tom Parkinson. Former frontman of the band Champagne on the Rocks, he now steps out on his own bringing earworm chorus’ and infectious upbeat energy.
The following Sunday 10th December, Beer and Busking welcomes juno; the indie, grunge and anti-folk brainchild of long-time family friends, songwriter Ollie Cannon-Jewell and multi-instrumentalist and producer, Benjy Stobart. The lineup gets an international injection from Nashville-born, indie-folk artist, Jackson Wooten. His music – made from his now home in London – combines heat-felt poems and moving melodies as heard on his debut album, A New Child, which was nominated for Best Self-Released Record by the American Association of Independent Music’s Libera Awards.
Next up comes the poignant voice of emotion, Jack Marsh, with a performance of hauntingly beautiful compositions and heartfelt tales. Completing the busker’s bill this December is indie-folk musician, Zach Vaughan. Heavily inspired by the likes of Bon Iver and Daughter, he incorporates personal tales from sexuality to philosophy in his accessible music.
With its cosy pub vibes and always-popular food menu, Beer and Busking at the Camden Assembly offers the perfect way to spend a Sunday. No matter the size of the tip jar at the end of the night, every penny will make a difference to the significant work carried out by War Child.
Formerly The Barfly, the Camden Assembly is one of London’s most celebrated live music venues. Its intimate 400-capacity space over two floors is renowned for breaking budding talent – as well as hosting iconic names such as Ed Sheeran, The Strokes and Adele – with many going on to sign label deals and embark on national tours.
