Paolo Nutini

Boyish singer/song writer Paolo Nutini hails from Paisley in Scotland, where his family have been based for four generations. He first came to into the public consciousness following an appearance on Radio 1’s Big Weekend where he was picked out over other local acts. His talent for writing songs that tell a story stems from his grandfather’s love of Scottish folk music and Paolo’s passion for American soul acts has helped him develop his soulful singing style.

He describes his grandfather’s influence in shaping his music: "He loved boogie woogie piano, he adored opera, and it was him that really encouraged me to sing. He always wanted somebody in the family to make music their living. He's not around to see it, unfortunately, but I'm doing just what he wanted, and I'm doing it in his honor."

His first foray into singing came when he was part of the school choir, where a teacher picked up on his talents and challenged his dream to become a football player. Aged 16 he decided to go on the road, selling T-shirts and roadying for friend’s bands and performing in support slots. He caught the attention of Atlantic Records and signed shortly after his 18 birthday, recording his debut album ‘These Streets’.

The album tells his story about moving from Scotland to London, including meeting an older woman in a bar in ‘Jenny Don’t Be Hasty’. The album eventually went platinum and led to support slots for Paul Weller and the Rolling Stones and singing a duet with Ben E King.