Bella White, a Calgary native, was immersed in the world of Appalachian folk, country, and bluegrass from a young age, thanks to her father—a native Virginia banjoist. Her musical journey began early, writing her first song at the age of seven and regularly attending folk festivals and music camps during her childhood. As she entered her teenage years, Bella expanded her musical horizons beyond traditional bluegrass, evolving both in her style and songwriting prowess.
Her debut album, “Just Like Leaving” (2020), may hail from Canada, but its soul resonates with the spirit of the Appalachian hills. White, far from a mere revivalist, infused her introspective and impassioned songwriting with a unique blend of Americana styles. Teaming up with producer Patrick M’Gonigle, a fiddle player in the Lonely Heartstring Band, the album, released on Rounder, firmly established her presence in Americana circles.
For her second album, “Among Other Things,” released in 2023, Bella White broadened her musical palette, collaborating with Jonathan Wilson (known for his work with Father John Misty and Angel Olsen). Spotify recognized the album as one of the Best Folk and Americana Albums of 2023. Recorded at Fivestar Studios in Topanga Canyon, the project featured contributions from indie musicians like Buck Meek of Big Thief and Drew Erikson (known for collaborations with Lana Del Rey and Weyes Blood).
Bella’s remarkable ascent in the music scene includes notable achievements like her Grand Ole Opry debut, and performances at SXSW, Stagecoach, and Newport Folk Festival. Having supported acts like Band of Horses & John Craigie, she is currently on tour with The Paper Kites and is slated to join Ashley McBryde, Dierks Bentley, and other artists throughout the Summer and Fall.
Name:
Bella White
Genre:
Americana, Folk, Bluegrass, Country
Founded:
2020
# of Albums:
2
Latest Album:
Among Other Things
Latest Single:
“Unknown Legend” – a Neil Young Cover, “Burn” for The Hunger Games Soundtrack and two alt. versions of both “Numbers” and “Rhododendron”
Latest Video:
Favourite musician growing up:
Elvis
Guilty pleasure song:
Always Changing, this week it’s “Life is A Highway” but the Rascal Flatts version
Live show ritual:
I don’t have much of a ritual, I like to try and get some sillies out with my band before I go on though.
Favourite local musician:
Kacy & Clayton
EP or LP?
LP
Early bird or night owl?
Depends on the day, but more often early bird
Road or studio?
Studio
Any shows or albums coming up?
Currently on the road with The Paper Kites, announcing a lot of great festivals this summer, joining Ashley McBryde and Dierks Bentley for some upcoming dates, and other exciting things to be announced soon.
Where can we follow you?
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Rapid Fire Local Questions:
What is your favourite local restaurant?
I love Pepinos!
What is your favourite street in your city and why?
The one I live on but I can’t disclose that info. HAHA.
What is your favourite park in your city and why?
I love going to City Park in New Orleans
What is your favourite music venue in your city?
St. Roch Tavern
What is your favourite music store in your city?
Webbs Music in the Bywater
