Precious Gems: Songwriter's Round

Four exciting up-and-coming singer-songwriters will grace the Snug stage at Hyde Park Book Club to take turns performing their original music, and sharing the personal stories behind their songs. Songwriter's rounds originated in Nashville, fostering community around songs and encouraging freedom of authentic expression - following on from ancient ways of sharing stories and art. Now this intimate performance style has spread internationally, and you can step into these artists world's right here in Leeds. Songwriter's rounds take music right back to its roots: raw emotion and face-to-face connection. Our first event will feature four artists from across the UK who all fit a different lane under the country music umbrella, and who have all seen significant career growth in the past year. Ruby Wheeler - Named by international music blog York Calling as 'York's rising country star', and having supported Nashville-based alt-country artist Kitty Coen on her UK tour, Ruby Wheeler has quickly made an impression on the UK country scene. With sharp lyrics, haunting and whimsical melodies, and a distinctively hypnotising voice, three of the four singles she has under her belt have been featured on BBC Introducing, and she is now working towards her debut EP. Sam Butler - With a sound that bridges the gap between the storytelling of retro country and the gritty Appalachian soul of modern country, Sam Butler's ability to capture genuine emotion has already earned him recognition, including airplay on BBC Introducing. A steady presence on the London circuit, he has brought his distinctive voice to stages such as Country on the Coast '26, The Country Café and supporting rising international talent, Canadian country artist Bob Sumner. Lauren Claire Townley - A dynamic country pop artist from Manchester who likes to keep things upbeat, sassy, and magical, Lauren Claire Townley mixes 90s girl power with modern day country. As well as performing her new music internationally as part of the Summer in Nashville tour, she recently made her Isle of Wight festival debut and supported Nashville artist Maggie Baugh. Lauren is currently releasing new songs every month to accumulate into an 18 track album. Nat Hills - Nat Hills is a country-rock artist turning raw resilience into high-energy anthems. Blending the gritty, unpolished edge of ’90s alternative rock with the storytelling, swagger and cinematic scale of modern country, she transforms personal survival into public empowerment. Bringing an unapologetic energy to every performance, Nat doesn’t just tell you her story, she makes you feel like you can win yours. She recently released her debut EP, and brought it to the Country Calling and Isle of Wight festival stages. This cosy and collaborative event will take you on a winding journey through the many avenues of country music, keeping you entertained while also leaving you with a deeper understanding of how songs are born.