Ellen Beth Abdi

Mancunian music-maker Ellen Beth Abdi uses live loops, pokey drums, undulating synths and quietly subversive lyrics to mould her unique sound. 

Ellen pops up in many areas of the Manchester scene, providing lead and backing vocals (& keys) for legendary indie/alternative bands in the city. From supporting The Stone Roses at Wembley Stadium, touring with New Order for their seminal MIF shows and most recently touring and recording with A Certain Ratio (all by the age of 27). Ellen is now focused on her solo music.

 ‘Potent and lyrical electronic soul with a social conscience. For the thinkers and the movers of this dimension and others’.

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Ellen’s enchanting and distinctive sound has gained her spots at Manchester International Festival, and support slots for Olivia Dean, Hollie Cooke, Ishmael Ensemble, Oscar Jerome and Allysha Joy. She was invited to collaborate live with music legend Angélique Kidjo, opening Aviva Studios for Manchester International Festival 2023. 

Ellen is currently working on a PRS-funded collaboration between herself, The Hallé Orchestra and Youth Choir and Low Four Studio due for release in summer 2024. In January 2024 Ellen began her work with Opera North’s Resonance Program creating a piece of work with collaborators Seren Marimba and Meme Gold. 

 Having been taken under the wing of the old guard of Manchester, while being very much representing the new school: Ellen has had a unique mentorship allowing her to learn from the best. The synergy between past and present allowing her to develop a well-rounded, nuanced skill set and an innate appreciation for the city's rich cultural heritage. Of which she is an integral part. 

 Her debut solo album is set for release in the spring.

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Previous Features

• Werkha - In Sunny G, Move Different (The Rigour, All Werk Is Play) 

• ACR - Constant Curve, Waiting on a Train, Afro Dizzy (1982).

• Chimpo - Tomorrow Never Knows (Don’t Worry About It)

• Jamie Finlay - Family, Give Back My Love, Daylight (Sun Dogs

• New Order - ( No , 12k , Lg , 17Mif)

 • New Order + Liam ∑ Gillick -  So it goes . . (Live at MIF).  

Career Highlights

Collaborating with Angélique Kidjo Recording + touring vocalist with ACR

 Playing synth and BVs with New Order. 

Collaborating with Low Four/Hallé Opera North residency.

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