Biography

Described in the Nashville press as the “Scottish Songbird”, Paisley-born singer songwriter Jill Jackson first burst on to the UK music scene as the front-woman of UK rock band Speedway, with whom she scored two top ten hits in 2004. When the band split in 2005 Jill embarked upon a career as a solo artist.

Jill’s solo work sees her bring her own unique Rock/Americana style, whilst remaining very much alternative. Inspired by legends such as Dolly Parton, Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris and Shawn Colvin, Jackson has developed a musical style that is very much her own.“When Speedway came to an end I decided to go back to my roots and play the kind of music that I love – Dolly Parton, Shelby Lynne, the Stones, Buddy Holly, Chet Atkins and Joni Mitchell. I just wanted to strip the whole sound back.”

At the end of 2005 Jill embarked upon an extensive 30-night UK tour supporting Nashville singer/songwriter Kevin Montgomery and his band, which included the legendary Al Perkins. Jill then spent the latter part of 2006 in Nashville where she was inspired to pen tracks for her Painted Faces EP – a 5 track ukulele collection that offers a mix of brilliantly crafted lyrics and beautiful melodies.

Following her return from the US Jill threw herself into gigging her solo material, all the while writing new songs. Former Spice Girl Melanie C recorded two of Jill’s songs (‘Don’t Let Me Go’ and ‘What If I Stay’) for her fourth studio record “This Time” (2007). Many of Jill’s fans have stuck with Jill since her Speedway days despite the change in music – something Jill is truly grateful for. Jill’s talents have not gone unnoticed -recognised by artists such as Albert Lee, Roger McGuinn, Rod Stewart and Bryan Adams all of which Jill has toured with and supported.   In Feb 2011, Jill released her much anticipated solo album ‘Back to Zero’   “This is quite a special album for me; it has little bit of all my influence in it. Some of the songs are radio friendly but still with a lot of meaning. This new record will be the one that defines me as a writer. It’s fun, intense and hugely personal. I am happy with the album …It’s a little melodic journey”

In 2010/2011 Jill toured with Scottish artists Glasvegas and Runrig as well as her launching her own tour following on from the successful launch of ‘Back to Zero’. Jill’s work has also attracted the attention of the television and film industry, with her song ‘Just Not Myself’ being featured in the penultimate episode of BBC Three’s Lip Service in December 2010.