Lal Waterson

Lal Waterson was a captivating figure in the British folk scene, best known for her work with the influential family band The Watersons. Born in Hull in 1943, she grew up surrounded by music, harmonizing with siblings Mike and Norma, and cousin John Harrison, on traditional a cappella folk songs that helped define the 1960s revival. But Lal’s true magic shone in her songwriting—quirky, poetic, and hauntingly original. Her 1972 collaborative album *Bright Phoebus* with brother Mike (featuring tracks like “A True Hearted Girl” and “Once in a Blue Moon”) became a cult classic, blending darkly whimsical storytelling with raw, emotional delivery. Though overlooked at release, its rediscovery cemented her reputation as a visionary.

Lal’s music felt both ancient and startlingly new, weaving personal introspections into folk traditions. Her untimely passing in 1998 left a void, but her legacy thrives through reissues and covers by artists enchanted by her singular voice. For fans of folk that’s equal parts earthy and enigmatic, Lal Waterson remains a hidden gem waiting to be rediscovered.