Holly Humberstone

Holly grew up in a small village near Grantham, surrounded by music and poetry. Inspired by artists like Damien Rice, she began writing songs and recording demos on her father’s old computer. As a teenager, she sent some of them to BBC Music, and within a week her song ‘Hit and Run’ was on the radio. The release of her breakthrough EP established her as a distinctive voice in contemporary pop, blending raw, intimate songwriting with unfiltered honesty. Her new album 'Cruel World' was shaped by daily studio sessions with collaborator Rob Milton and explores different forms of love, from romantic to platonic and female solidarity. Drawing on her upbringing among strong women, Holly also reflects on how women are taught to compete with one another, and the importance of unlearning that instinct and finding strength in solidarity.