Biography
Eddi Reader, born Sadenia Edna Reader on 28 August 1959 in Glasgow, Scotland, began her musical journey early, learning guitar at age ten and busking in Glasgow streets before moving to Irvine in her late teens. She started performing young, using music to connect with others through busking and local folk clubs, and worked as a backing vocalist for UK acts including post-punk band Gang of Four, the Eurythmics (singing with Annie Lennox), and the Waterboys.[1][2][3][4]
Reader achieved international success as lead vocalist of Fairground Attraction, whose 1988 number-one single 'Perfect' and debut album First of a Million Kisses defined late-1980s folk-pop hits. Her solo career spans diverse albums like Mirmama, Eddi Reader, Simple Soul, and Songs of Robert Burns, blending contemporary songwriting with Scottish folk traditions, earning critical acclaim for emotional authenticity across genres.[1][5]
Awarded an MBE in 2006 for services to singing and an Honorary Doctorate from the University of the West of Scotland in 2025, Reader's legacy lies in connecting Scottish musical heritage globally while inspiring generations through her versatile voice and commitment to music's connective power.[1][2]
Fun Facts
- Learned guitar at age ten and began busking in Glasgow streets as a child performer.
- Received an Honorary Doctorate from the University of the West of Scotland in November 2025 at Paisley Abbey for her contributions to music.
- Her album Songs of Robert Burns connected Scottish musical heritage to global audiences.
- Describes music as 'always about connection – connection with people and with emotion.'
Associated Acts
- The Waterboys (1984–1984)
- Fairground Attraction (1987–1990)
- Language
Musical Connections
Key Collaborators
- Fairground Attraction - lead vocalist of the folk band ('Perfect' single, First of a Million Kisses album) [late 1980s]
- Gang of Four - backing vocalist (early post-punk work) [early career]
- Eurythmics / Annie Lennox - backing singer on tour (tour performances) [early career]
- Waterboys - backing vocalist (various recordings) [early career]
External Links
Tags: #folk
References
Heard on WWOZ
Eddi Reader has been played 1 time on WWOZ 90.7 FM, New Orleans' jazz and heritage station.
| Date | Time | Title | Show | Spotify |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 29, 2025 | 19:12 | Auld Lang Synefrom Eddi Reader Sings The Songs Of R | Blues and R&Bw/ Gentilly Jr. |