Hotly-tipped singer songwriter Liam Bailey will make his major label debut with the release of new single You Better Leave Me on Polydor Records on March 13th.
The up-and-coming soul man first caught the attention of the public and media alike with the release of two EPs last year – 2am Rough Tracks and So Down, Cold. These intriguing snapshots, recorded very simply with just Liam and his guitar, showcased the raw tenderness of his unique vocal and heartfelt, emotional storytelling.
Both EPs were released on Amy Winehouse's Lioness Records imprint. The Back to Black singer first heard Liam's music through a mutual friend and felt so connected with its stripped back emotion that she was compelled to contact him. They bonded immediately. All the EP tracks were recorded late at night with the emphasis firmly on getting up close and personal with Liam and his guitar.
The EPs attracted early press interest and Liam featured in Q, Sunday Times Culture and MOJO, – with comparisons being made to Sam Cooke, Terry Callier, Bill Withers and Bob Marley – as well as a slew of Ones To Watch for 2011 lists. Liam's self-penned debut album was produced by Salaam Remi (Nas, Fugees, Amy Winehouse) and will be released on Polydor in May.
Such is the breadth of his talent and appeal that Liam also hooked up with urban stars Chase & Status and is the guest vocalist on their new single Blind Faith. He supported them on their UK tour in November and has recently shared the stage with fellow rising stars Jessie J and Clare Maguire, as well as playing his own intimate solo shows.
You Better Leave Me will be available digitally on March 13th and will feature a Shy FX remix.
An acoustic version of You Better Leave Me is available to view here:
link
Catch Liam live:
Tues 25th Jan – New to Q, Bush Hall, London with Clare Maguire Tues 8th Feb – HMV Next Big Thing, Jazz Cafe, London with The Pieces, Jonathan Jeremiah