[Electronic Press Kit]

Bio

Soul Trader® stands as an organic force in modern music, delivering powerful, raw acoustic pop rock that really hits you with its genuine emotion and energy, all while blazing his own trail in a increasingly synthetic world, full of synthetic tunes.

“Soul Trader’s energy and passion ensure he’s going to give you one hell of a show!”

– Simon Naylor, 53Two Manchester

Soul Trader® has performed on stages across Australia, the UK, Ireland, and Germany, sharing the spotlight with music legends such as Chris Difford (Squeeze), Francis Dunnery (Robert Plant, Santana, Solo), Chris Barron (Spin Doctors), Steve Hogarth (Marillion), Ross Wilson (Daddy Cool, Mondo Rock), The Waifs, as well as esteemed Irish artists including Mary Black, The Wolftones, and Aslan.

“Soul Trader is something special”

– Rob Dunstan, Rip it up/BSide Magazine

Simon James Betts grew up a beacon of belief in a sea of doubt. While others questioned a shy country kid, Simon’s self belief was unwavering. With guitar in hand and finding his voice, he began crafting tunes he termed “observations of life”, having no clue they’d stay timeless, relatable and go beyond trends.

Two years into his journey as a singer songwriter, Simon bypassed the predictable next big city move and boarded a plane to the acoustic music Mecca of Ireland. Immersed in writing and performing he set about refining his craft. From intimate pubs to big festivals, sharing the stage with legends, and even while living in his car, Simon was hailed as the “Future of Music”.

Back from Ireland, Simon emerged as Soul Trader®, a songwriter and entertainer passionately creating genuine, heartfelt music to connect with audiences globally.

Amid a musical era dominated by loop pedals* and autotune, and in a world where Photoshop alters reality and superficial enhancements prevail, Soul Trader® embodies authenticity, through his songs, stories and sound. In a society where people often feel inadequate due to pressures of perfection, he serves as a spotlight on the value of self, particularly inspiring for the younger generation, showing how being genuine and authentic can be a source of inspiration and empowerment.

“Soul Trader is a great singer/songwriter and everyone always loves to see him perform. I have the upmost respect for him as an artist, he always delivers.”

– Francis Dunnery (Robert Plant, Santana, Solo)

Soul Trader® is currently on an ambitious new recording journey, to deliver authentic acoustic music in an unprecedented fashion. This promises to be an unparalleled and genuine experience for the listener. Additionally, you can experience Soul Trader® live, on the ‘Out Here Alone’ tour 2023-24.

*This is not aimed at Ed Sheeran, he is an innovator, not and imitator. To be the next “Ed Sheeran” you need to be different, not the same.

Career Heights

• Released three albums of original material
• Performed in Australia and internationally in the UK, Ireland and Germany
• Performed in front of 10,000 people at the Dunbrody Festival (Ireland)
• Invited to perform CKDCF Children’s Charity Concert weekend 2018, 2019 & 2023 (Cumbria, England)
• Performer & Artist Interview CKDCF Online Children’s Charity Concert 2020 (USA/UK)
• Regular guest performer on ABC Radio Adelaide
• Finalist in the AWASAM Award for Excellence as a Male Solo Artist
• Radio airplay across Australia, The UK and Ireland

Performed alongside:

• Francis Dunnery (Formally of It Bites – UK/USA)
• Chris Difford (Squeeze – UK)
• Steve Hogarth (Marillion – UK)
• Chris Baron (Spin Doctors – USA)
• Mary Black, The Wolftones & Aslan (Ireland)
• Ross Wilson (Daddy Cool, Mondo Rock – Australia)
• The Waifs (Australia)

• CKDCF Children’s Charity Concert (England)
• International guest at Lancaster Music Festival (England)
• Dunbrody Festival (Ireland)
• Adelaide Fringe Festival (Australia)
• Killmuckridge Festival (Ireland)
• Adelaide Cabaret Festival (Australia)
• Victor Harbor Folk Festival (Australia)

Photos

Click the images below to see a preview of the full images or click the button to download the Soul Trader® Promo Photos.

[ Click here to view more Soul Trader® images on the photos page. ]

Lancaster street and live photos take by Lorraine Poole Photography.

Videos

Watch originals songs by Soul Trader®.

[ Click here to watch more Soul Trader® videos on YouTube. ]

Music

Soul Trader® original songs from the album Pre-Cursor.

[ Click here to listen to more Soul Trader® originals on the music page. ]

Hospitality Rider

Please use the form below to discuss any hospitality, accommodation & travel preferences Soul Trader® may have and how they may apply to your event or venue.

Contact

For Soul Trader professional enquiries please use the form below.