Glasgow Sessions

Out at Mugdock Country Park for some quiet nature and ambiance recordings on a warm Sunday afternoon, host Richard Lee stumbled into something completely unexpected: the Dunbartonshire Wind Ensemble in full flow. What started as a field-recording trip turned into an impromptu live session with a multigenerational community band whose youngest member is 12 and whose oldest is in their 80s. After a chat, they kindly agreed to let him hit record – and this episode is the result. This is exactly what Richard loves about Glasgow and the surrounding areas: you go out for one thing and end up discovering something beautiful happening in a corner of a park. The next full Glasgow Sessions episode is with Kaz Sharply, but this little moment from today jumped the queue and he wanted to share it while it’s still fresh. Enjoy this spontaneous session with the Dunbartonshire Wind Ensemble. If you like what you hear, give them a follow, support your local music community, and look them up on Facebook to see what they’re up to next. You can also find out more on their website: https://dunbartonshirewindensemble.co.uk/ And if you’d like to keep up with Glasgow Sessions, you can follow the show on Instagram at @glasgowsessions, and listen on Amazon Music, Apple Podcasts, and Spotify.

In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, Richard sits down with actor, writer, director, voice‑over artist and acting coach Kat Harrison – the working‑class creative force behind Chaos Collective and Break A Leg Academy (BALA). They talk about Kat’s journey from youth theatre in Cumbernauld to founding her own theatre company and launching a pay‑what‑you‑can acting school in Glasgow, built to open doors that were almost closed to her. Kat shares what it really looks like to balance single parenthood, neurodivergence, creative work and community building in a sector that isn’t always kind to working‑class artists. The conversation dives into BALA’s new production of John Lyly’s 16th‑century play Gallathea – a queer Elizabethan “romp” about love, disguise and identity – and what it means to stage that story in 2026 at The Ferry on the Broomielaw. Kat also reflects on the time she met and worked with @hitrecordjoe, and the vital work he’s doing to champion artists in a fast‑changing era of AI. Along the way, there’s honest chat about access, confidence, class, and the power of small acts of kindness to change the whole direction of a life. 🎟 Gallathea – Show Info Break A Leg Academy (BALA) presents Gallathea at The Ferry, 25 Anderston Quay, Glasgow G3 8BX, on June 15, 16 & 17. Doors: 7:00 PM | Show: 7:30 PM More info: breakalegacademy.com 🔗 Follow Kat on Instagram: @kat_harrison_creative Break A Leg Academy: @breakalegacademy_bala 🎧 Listen & Subscribe You can find Glasgow Sessions on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and Amazon Music – follow or subscribe so you don’t miss an episode.

In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, host Richard Lee sits down with returning guests Keeks Mc and Cat Cochrane, and welcomes debut guest Kaz Sharply, for an hour of poetry and chat in modern Scots. Together they explore how the language is being spoken and written right now – in families, schools and streets – and what happens when that collides with TikTok slang and global internet English. Across the session you’ll hear poems about family and home, school days and unforgettable classmates, PTSD and the way places hold memory, alongside the daft, funny moments that keep us going. The guests talk about code‑switching, emerging dialects, and why it’s vital that young people see their own language on the page, not just hear it in the playground. The episode also touches on the growing support for Scots in competitions and funding, the pressure to “translate” into English, and the importance of staying authentic to your own voice. As Glasgow Sessions continues to evolve into a cultural archive, this instalment captures a living snapshot of how Scots carries who we are – right now – in this city. Guests: Keeks Mc – Instagram: @keeksmcpoetry Cat Cochrane – Instagram: @catchochrane_writer Kaz Sharply – Instagram: @kazsharply and @wittyandsharp

In this episode, Richard Lee is joined by three phenomenal poets and dear pals of the show: Keeks Mc (@keeks_mc), Stephen Watt (@stephenwattpoet), and making his debut as a fellow co-host of Glasgow Sessions, Dev McMath (@devmcmath_poet). Across the episode, we move from belly laughs to gut punches, talking Scots language and identity, Glasgow’s buzzing spoken-word scene, and the strange comfort of 90s nostalgia, VHS tapes, and Super 8 reels. Keeks brings fiercely heartfelt Scots work about voice, class, and the “kinch wi death”; Stephen mixes whisky timelines, bats, and family home movies into that singular blend of humour and tenderness he’s known for; and Dev charts finding home in Scotland and trying to make sense of the chaos of the new twenties. There are plenty of daft stories - from Irn-Bru sacrilege to teenage Disaronno schemes - alongside conversations about grief, dementia, aging, and why this city’s poetry community means so much to us. It’s a warm, raucous, deeply human episode, and we're delighted to share it with you. Follow the poets: Keeks Mc - @keeks_mc Stephen Watt - @stephenwattpoet Dev McMath - @devmcmath_poet And keep up with the show at @glasgowsessions.

In this special announcement episode of Glasgow Sessions, host Richard Lee is joined by Dev McMath to reflect on how the project has grown over the past few months - and where it’s heading next. What started as a grassroots platform for live music and spoken word has quickly evolved into something bigger: a growing cultural archive of voices, scenes, and stories from across Glasgow. With more artists reaching out and more listeners tuning in, the conversation turns to what that growth means, and how Glasgow Sessions can continue to develop. Together, Richard and Dev discuss the vision behind the project, the idea of documenting the city in a meaningful way, and why now feels like the right time to expand. This episode also marks a call-out to creatives across Glasgow - especially editors, videographers, and collaborators - who want to be part of building something that represents the city on a wider, international stage. Follow Dev McMath: @devmcmath Follow Glasgow Sessions: @glasgowsessions

Ash-Lee De Halevang joins us for a fiercely honest conversation about identity, transience, and finding home after a childhood stretched between London, East Lothian, Singapore, Malaysia, Cornwall, and now Glasgow. We talk about growing up dyslexic and uprooted, Warrior Cats as a gateway into reading, and the moment a single creative writing exercise catapulted Ash from bottom set to top set and set them on the path to becoming a writer. Ash traces her journey from early filmmaking into poetry, the “real university” of open mics, and a three-year commitment to writing a poem a day. We dig into influences like Audre Lorde, Gil Scott-Heron, John Cooper Clarke, Savannah Brown, and hip hop, and what they taught Ash about voice, politics, and performance. There’s frank discussion of mental health, dyslexia, and the feedback loop of sad poetry – as well as how community, mentorship (including Mothtales and Phil Thomson), and spaces like Loud Poets, the Lilac Collective, and Glasgow’s spoken word scene helped Ash find a more sustainable, communal way of making art. We also talk about working across poetry, scripts, and film, and how an idea finds its form. A central thread is gender identity and trans rights: Ash shares the story of coming out as transgender to her parents last October, how that moment reshaped her relationship to their work, and what it means to create as a trans poet in the current political climate. This episode contains personal reflections on mental health and one poem that engages with real-world politics, including corporate complicity in war. Listener discretion advised. Follow the show on Instagram: @glasgowsessions Listen to Glasgow Sessions on Podbean, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and Amazon Music.

Peter Brown - Pete the Street | Glasgow Sessions If you've ever walked through the city and spotted someone standing at an easel in the pouring rain - no umbrella, no shelter, just paint and canvas - there's a good chance you've just met this week's guest. Peter Brown, known as Pete the Street, is one of Britain's most celebrated plein air painters. For over thirty years he's stood on pavements from Bath to London to New York - and increasingly, right here in Glasgow - painting everyday life exactly as it unfolds, in all weathers, never from a photograph, always in the thick of it. He's a Past President of the New English Art Club, Banksy chose him to feature in Cut & Run at the GoMA, and just recently he was on Union Street painting the Glasgow station fire as it happened while the TV cameras filmed him doing it. In this episode we talk about building a career from scratch on the pavements of Bath, painting lockdown London when the streets fell silent, his Banksy collaboration, why Glasgow has gotten completely under his skin - and his forthcoming Glasgow paintings exhibition. Follow Pete: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petethestreet1/ 🌐 Website: https://www.peterbrownneac.com/ 🖼️ Glasgow Paintings: https://www.peterbrownneac.com/glasgow/ Subscribe to Pete's newsletter at peterbrownneac.com for updates on his upcoming Glasgow exhibition. Listen to Glasgow Sessions on: 🟢 Spotify 🎵 Apple Podcasts 🟠 Amazon Music 📸 Instagram: @glasgowsessions Glasgow Sessions is a podcast celebrating the artists, musicians, poets, and creative voices of Glasgow and beyond. New episodes regularly - follow and subscribe wherever you listen.

Episode 18: Attack/Release at Bloc+ — Cinema Hotdogs, Ty Lumnus & A'Bear Glasgow has always been a city of sound-makers. From the basement rehearsal room to the experimental club night, this is a city that has never stopped pushing music into new territory - and Attack/Release is one of the spaces keeping that spirit fiercely alive. In this episode, we head down to Bloc+ on Bath Street for the April session of Attack/Release - a free monthly night dedicated to live experimental electronic music, founded and hosted by Fraser Rowan (aka Ty Lumnus). You'll hear three brilliant live sets from three very different artists: Cinema Hotdogs - making his Attack/Release debut and launching a brand new cassette release on the night. The latest project from producer Andrew Merrick, blending cinematic soundscapes with lo-fi electronic warmth. Ty Lumnus - Glasgow's modular synth architect and the founder of this very night, launching his new album Resonances in the Hidden Field on Astral Discs. Melodic dystopian soundscapes meet hypnotic, meditative ambient territory. A'Bear - a South African-born, London-based psychedelic electronic musician whose cosmic polyrhythms and warped basslines create something you feel as much as hear. Bloc+ has been one of Scotland's most vital small venues since 2001 - a place where Twin Atlantic, Frightened Rabbit, and Biffy Clyro all played early gigs before the arenas came calling. No entry fee, no barrier between you and the music, no compromise. This one's for the late-night listeners. Turn it up. Next Attack/Release: Wednesday 27th May 2026 @ Bloc+ featuring Laurie Black, Zonos, and AM Frequencies — free entry, 9–11pm. Huge thanks to James and Chris at Bloc+ for making this episode possible. Follow Attack/Release: @attackreleaseglasgow Follow Glasgow Sessions: @glasgowsessions 🎧 Listen on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music 💜 Support the podcast and help keep these conversations going: patreon.com/GlasgowSessions

Glasgow has always been a city of storytellers. From the tenement close to the poetry night, this is a city that has never stopped finding its voice - and today's guest is making sure that tradition carries on. Jess Smith is the founder of Kelvingrove Writers - a free, grassroots writing group she started in 2022 with a simple but powerful idea: that writing shouldn't be the preserve of the privileged few. That everyone, regardless of background, experience, or confidence, deserves a space to tell their story. What began as a small fortnightly circle has grown into something genuinely special. Today, Kelvingrove Writers runs regular sessions every second Monday, completely free. They've published their own anthology, run sold-out retreats, collaborated with the Scottish Working Class Network, and partnered with galleries and literary organisations right across Scotland. In this episode, we talk about how it all began, what drives Jess to keep it going, and why spaces like this are vital for the cultural life of our city. Joining Jess are members Tom, Cate, Sam, Andrew, and Molly - all brilliant writers who bring their own voices to the conversation. And woven through the episode is the beautiful sound of the Glasgow Trad Society, colouring the edges of this recording with the music of the city we're talking about. At its core, this is a conversation about belonging - about sitting down with a pen and a page, and knowing the person next to you is rooting for you. Featured in this episode: Jess Smith — @jessica.smxth Tom — @toms_books Cate — @cate_a_b Samual Adams Andrew Molly — @molly.mallinder Find Kelvingrove Writers: @kelvingrovewriters With thanks to: @dramglasgow and @glasgowuni_trad 🎧 Glasgow Sessions is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music — just search Glasgow Sessions. Follow the show on Instagram: @glasgowsessions Support the podcast and help keep these conversations going: patreon.com/GlasgowSessions

Glasgow Sessions #16: Jay-Lee CCTV — Govan Rap, Scheme Life & Building the Scottish Scene (Live Performances from Patrick Studios) From Govan's housing schemes to headlining Audio Glasgow, Jay-Lee CCTV brings raw Glasgow rap to Glasgow Sessions. Rapper, producer, events manager, and one half of the duo CCTV with Jam Harvie, Jay-Lee's been building the underground for over five years — and his debut solo album All Or Nothing (Scheme Hing label) is twelve tracks of unflinching scheme life. This episode features Jay-Lee performing "Canny Forget", "Cold Stare", and "Mirror" LIVE in Patrick Studios — pure fire captured raw. We talk through the album's heavy hitters — "Stuck in Time", "Nae Hame", "Never Again" — and the mixes that take you from grimey pop to DNB to garage without breaking stride. Jay-Lee opens up about "Money Talks" as a direct response to Govan gentrification and the East Govan Community Council, plus CCTV's festival run from Solfest's Scheme Hing tent to Knockengorroch, Lindisfarne, and that Mobb Deep support slot he won. From winning comps to running year-round Scheme Hing events with Loki, Kryptik, and the Scottish rap family, to his January take that "Scottish rap's having its moment" despite the "no money, no respect" reality — this is working-class Glasgow rap at its most real. Special shout-out to @becciwallacemusic for the vibes. In this episode: Live performances: "Canny Forget", "Cold Stare", "Mirror" from Patrick Studios Life in Glasgow's schemes through All Or Nothing "Money Talks" vs Govan gentrification Scheme Hing events, Audio Glasgow's Last Live of '25, festival runs Scottish rap's moment despite industry realities 🎧 Available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music — search "Glasgow Sessions" 👉 Follow Jay-Lee: @jaylee_cctv 👉 Stream All Or Nothing: jayleecctv.bandcamp.com 👉 Follow Glasgow Sessions: @glasgowsessions 🤝 Support independent Scottish podcasting: patreon.com/GlasgowSessions Next Episode: Out in the field with @kelvingrovewriters — poetry, community, and Glasgow's writing scene. #GlasgowSessions #JayLeeCCTV #GlasgowRap #ScottishGrime #SchemeHing #GovanRap #LiveRap #PatrickStudios #WorkingClassVoices #Podcast #ScottishMusic #GlasgowCreatives

For this episode of Glasgow Sessions, Richard sits down with poet and stand‑up Martin Rowe, better known on stage as Martin from Dumbarton. A nursery worker by day and performer by night, Martin brings together working‑class graft, childcare, Wetherspoons toilets, Still Game, wrestling and trading card games into a voice that’s funny, heartfelt and quietly subversive. Across the conversation, they dig into Martin’s route through jobs like Costa and Tenpin into finding his calling in childcare, and what it actually feels like to be a man working in a nursery in 2026. Martin talks through poems including his Wetherspoons trilogy, “Default Dad”, “The Bottom Line”, “Being Different is Cool”, and “Just Thanks” — a piece written by his papa about alcoholism and recovery that Martin now performs with permission and pride. Along the way, they explore class, fandom, family, masculinity, and why embracing your inner nerd can be a source of strength rather than shame. If you enjoy the episode, you can connect with Martin on Instagram at @martinfromdumbarton and follow the show at @glasgowsessions on Instagram for updates, clips and upcoming guests. Support Glasgow Sessions and help keep the conversations going at: patreon.com/GlasgowSessions

For this episode of Glasgow Sessions, Richard Lee sits down with one of the most recognisable and generous figures in the city’s spoken word community — Ross Wilcock. A queer, disabled Glaswegian poet, performer and event curator, Ross has become a central presence in Glasgow’s modern poetry scene. If you’ve spent time at an open mic on Byres Road in recent years, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with him — whether on stage performing, hosting, or encouraging someone to read their work for the very first time. Ross is the driving force behind The Poetry Experiment at The Alchemy Experiment, a monthly open mic that has become a welcoming gateway for emerging poets across the city, and he also hosts nights at The Curlers Rest, helping nurture a vibrant and supportive community of writers and performers. As these nights continue to grow — with The Poetry Experiment celebrating its third birthday this March — Ross’s influence on Glasgow’s grassroots poetry culture is impossible to ignore. But Ross is far more than an event organiser. He’s a published poet whose pamphlet Once Upon a Time in Glasgow captures the emotional textures of life in the city, exploring disability, queerness, love, heartbreak and resilience through deeply personal storytelling. His spoken word performances have taken him from intimate Glasgow venues like The Hug and Pint to the stages of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with Loud Poets, and last year he brought his solo show Gay, Disabled, Vegan to the Free Fringe. Beyond poetry, Ross spent over five years creating content for BBC The Social, using storytelling and commentary to highlight disability, accessibility and what it means to navigate the world as a queer disabled artist. His writing has appeared in SNACK Magazine, and he’s collaborated with organisations such as the Scottish Queer International Film Festival, all while completing an MLitt in Creative Writing at University of Glasgow. In this episode, Richard and Ross talk about the journey that led him into poetry, the communities he’s helped build across Glasgow’s open mic scene, and how art can help people connect — especially when it’s rooted in honesty and lived experience. The conversation is warm, reflective and often funny, exploring everything from disability activism and creative identity to the simple magic of watching someone read their first poem on stage. Along the way, we also hear short audio reflections from poets across Glasgow who share what Ross’s work — and his open mic nights — have meant to them and the city’s growing spoken word community. If you’re interested in the heart of Glasgow’s poetry scene, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. If you’re enjoying the podcast, follow us on Instagram @glasgowsessions, leave a review wherever you’re listening, and if you’d like to support the show, head to patreon.com/GlasgowSessions. Every bit of support helps keep the sessions going. 🎙️📚

For this episode of Glasgow Sessions, Richard Lee sits down with one of the most recognisable and generous figures in the city’s spoken word community — Ross Wilcock. A queer, disabled Glaswegian poet, performer and event curator, Ross has become a central presence in Glasgow’s modern poetry scene. If you’ve spent time at an open mic on Byres Road in recent years, there’s a good chance you’ve crossed paths with him — whether on stage performing, hosting, or encouraging someone to read their work for the very first time. Ross is the driving force behind The Poetry Experiment at The Alchemy Experiment, a monthly open mic that has become a welcoming gateway for emerging poets across the city, and he also hosts nights at The Curlers Rest, helping nurture a vibrant and supportive community of writers and performers. As these nights continue to grow — with The Poetry Experiment celebrating its third birthday this March — Ross’s influence on Glasgow’s grassroots poetry culture is impossible to ignore. But Ross is far more than an event organiser. He’s a published poet whose pamphlet Once Upon a Time in Glasgow captures the emotional textures of life in the city, exploring disability, queerness, love, heartbreak and resilience through deeply personal storytelling. His spoken word performances have taken him from intimate Glasgow venues like The Hug and Pint to the stages of the Edinburgh Festival Fringe with Loud Poets, and last year he brought his solo show Gay, Disabled, Vegan to the Free Fringe. Beyond poetry, Ross spent over five years creating content for BBC The Social, using storytelling and commentary to highlight disability, accessibility and what it means to navigate the world as a queer disabled artist. His writing has appeared in SNACK Magazine, and he’s collaborated with organisations such as the Scottish Queer International Film Festival, all while completing an MLitt in Creative Writing at University of Glasgow. In this episode, Richard and Ross talk about the journey that led him into poetry, the communities he’s helped build across Glasgow’s open mic scene, and how art can help people connect — especially when it’s rooted in honesty and lived experience. The conversation is warm, reflective and often funny, exploring everything from disability activism and creative identity to the simple magic of watching someone read their first poem on stage. Along the way, we also hear short audio reflections from poets across Glasgow who share what Ross’s work — and his open mic nights — have meant to them and the city’s growing spoken word community. If you’re interested in the heart of Glasgow’s poetry scene, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. If you’re enjoying the podcast, follow us on Instagram @glasgowsessions, leave a review wherever you’re listening, and if you’d like to support the show, head to patreon.com/GlasgowSessions. Every bit of support helps keep the sessions going. 🎙️📚

Glasgow Sessions – Live at Vinyl Bar (East End, Glasgow) This episode of Glasgow Sessions was recorded live in the East End at Vinyl Bar on London Road, just off Glasgow Cross. A small, characterful pub built for listening, Vinyl Bar opened its doors to live musicians and poets, turning a Sunday afternoon in early December 2025 into a room full of sound, conversation, and shared attention. Recorded right in the middle of the bar, this episode captures the space exactly as it was: glasses clinking, regulars chatting, performers setting up and stepping forward, and the natural rhythm of a working pub holding live art. There’s no studio separation here — the atmosphere, the interruptions, and the audience are all part of the recording. The session officially kicks off with poets stepping into the poetry booth, setting the tone for an ongoing spoken word presence at the venue. Featured poets include Dev McMath and Katie Rose, with more poets from across Glasgow scheduled to come in and record their work in future sessions. Huge thanks to everyone who played, sang, read, listened, and contributed to the room on the day, and to Beth Glen and the team at Vinyl Bar for hosting and supporting live music and poetry in the East End. This episode of Glasgow Sessions is streaming now on Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify. Glasgow Sessions documents live performance as it happens — unpolished, communal, and rooted in place. Glasgow Sessions is on Instagram @glasgowsessions The Vinyl Bar: @vinylbarg1 Poets: ✍️🔥 Dev McMath – @devmcmath 🌿✨ Katie Rose – @silvercoatedbushytailed

Glasgow Sessions – Live at Vinyl Bar (East End, Glasgow) This episode of Glasgow Sessions was recorded live in the East End at Vinyl Bar on London Road, just off Glasgow Cross. A small, characterful pub built for listening, Vinyl Bar opened its doors to live musicians and poets, turning a Sunday afternoon in early December 2025 into a room full of sound, conversation, and shared attention. Recorded right in the middle of the bar, this episode captures the space exactly as it was: glasses clinking, regulars chatting, performers setting up and stepping forward, and the natural rhythm of a working pub holding live art. There’s no studio separation here — the atmosphere, the interruptions, and the audience are all part of the recording. The session officially kicks off with poets stepping into the poetry booth, setting the tone for an ongoing spoken word presence at the venue. Featured poets include Dev McMath and Katie Rose, with more poets from across Glasgow scheduled to come in and record their work in future sessions. Huge thanks to everyone who played, sang, read, listened, and contributed to the room on the day, and to Beth Glen and the team at Vinyl Bar for hosting and supporting live music and poetry in the East End. This episode of Glasgow Sessions is streaming now on Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Spotify. Glasgow Sessions documents live performance as it happens — unpolished, communal, and rooted in place.

In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, host Richard Lee sits down with Glasgow-based singer-songwriter Rosie Green, also known as Rosie Kate Green. Rosie talks about her journey through the city’s music scene — from busking with a small amp at Loch Lomond Shores to late-night open mics around Glasgow — and how those early experiences shaped her sound and songwriting voice. The conversation explores her deeply personal, piano-driven pop and indie folk songs, touching on themes of vulnerability, resilience, and mental health. Rosie also opens up about balancing life as a veterinary nurse alongside growing musical ambitions, and the process behind releases like When I Get There, Brick by Brick, and her EP Time What a Funny Thing. The episode features live, in-studio performances, offering an intimate look at Rosie’s music in its rawest form. A thoughtful and honest conversation with an emerging voice in the Scottish music scene. 🎧 Available now on Spotify, Amazon Music, and Apple Podcasts.

In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, host Richard Lee sits down with Stephen Watt (@stephenwattpoet) — one of Scotland’s most distinctive and prolific poets. Stephen is the author of six poetry collections, the founder of Seahorse Publications, and is widely known as Scotland’s Crime Poet. But there's so much more to him than that. In this conversation, we explore Stephen’s full story — his working life before poetry, how he found his voice on the spoken word scene, and the experiences that shaped his writing. We talk about his deep love of football and what it means to be Poet-in-Residence at Dumbarton FC. We dig into his passion for punk and the rebellious energy that runs through his work. And Stephen tells us about the unforgettable time he met the legendary John Cooper Clarke. From award wins — including Poetry Rivals, the Liverpool Poetry Prize, and the StAnza International Digital Poetry Prize — to performing at the Edinburgh Festival and Bloody Scotland, Stephen has carved out a career that's entirely his own. This episode is packed with stories, laughs, and real insight into the life of a working poet. One not to be missed. Follow Stephen: Instagram: @stephenwattpoet Facebook: Stephen Watt Poet Follow Glasgow Sessions: Instagram: @glasgowsessions Also available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify & Amazon Music.

In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, we bring you a rich mix of live music and spoken word from some of the city’s most exciting grassroots talent. You’ll hear music from Blair, Suzanne, and Don, performing as Tuath, recorded live at the Park Bar on Argyll Street. They’re joined by guest singer Iona Nicdhaibhidh, whose voice adds something truly special to the session. The episode also features conversations and poetry from across Glasgow’s vibrant poetry scene, with contributions from Dean Tsang, Drew Gill, Siluouan H, Nate, Martin Rowe, and award-winning poet Aditya Narayan, all reflecting on the city, creativity, and the power of spoken word. With recordings captured at Speak Easy, Poets’ Corner Glasgow, and the Park Bar, this episode is a snapshot of Glasgow’s live creative culture — raw, honest, and full of character. Thanks to everyone who took part in making this episode possible, and a special thank you to Dierdre and the staff at the Park Bar for their continued support. Hosted by Richard Lee.

Recorded in Glasgow just days before the Scottish Languages Act 2025 passed, this episode of Glasgow Sessions captures Scots language poet Keeks Mc right on the cusp of a historic shift for the language. At the time of our conversation, Scots was still fighting for formal recognition – still too often dismissed in institutions – even as poets like Keeks were proving that it is a living, contemporary literary medium. We talk about what it means to start writing at 40 and rapidly become one of the most distinctive Scots voices in the country, her award‑winning collections Rede Wi Yer Hert and Contermacious Temerity, and the joy and graft of choosing to write exclusively in her ain leed. The conversation ranges through class and language prejudice, humour as a form of resilience, mental health, and the responsibilities that come with speaking from and for a community. Together we also dig into the backlash faced by Len Pennie (@misspunnypennie) and the huge, undeniable impact she’s had in bringing Scots into everyday feeds, classrooms, and conversations. We talk solidarity, nuance, and why visible, vocal Scots creators matter so much at this particular moment in time. This is Keeks’ first ever podcast interview – a genuine world‑first for Glasgow Sessions – and you can feel what’s at stake for both Scots and Scottish poetry running underneath the whole conversation. If you enjoy the episode, please follow us on Instagtam @glasgowsessions, share, and tell a friend. The goal for Glasgow Sessions is to grow onto platforms like BBC Sounds and reach a wider international audience with the voices, stories, and languages that make this city what it is – and your support is a huge part of making that happen. Glasgow Sessions is created and hosted by Richard Lee.

Recorded in Glasgow just days before the Scottish Languages Act 2025 passed, this episode of Glasgow Sessions captures Scots language poet Keeks Mc right on the cusp of a historic shift for the language. At the time of our conversation, Scots was still fighting for formal recognition – still too often dismissed in institutions – even as poets like Keeks were proving that it is a living, contemporary literary medium. We talk about what it means to start writing at 40 and rapidly become one of the most distinctive Scots voices in the country, her award‑winning collections Rede Wi Yer Hert and Contermacious Temerity, and the joy and graft of choosing to write exclusively in her ain leed. The conversation ranges through class and language prejudice, humour as a form of resilience, mental health, and the responsibilities that come with speaking from and for a community. Together we also dig into the backlash faced by Len Pennie (@misspunnypennie) and the huge, undeniable impact she’s had in bringing Scots into everyday feeds, classrooms, and conversations. We talk solidarity, nuance, and why visible, vocal Scots creators matter so much at this particular moment in time. This is Keeks’ first ever podcast interview – a genuine world‑first for Glasgow Sessions – and you can feel what’s at stake for both Scots and Scottish poetry running underneath the whole conversation. If you enjoy the episode, please follow us on Instagtam @glasgowsessions, share, and tell a friend. The goal for Glasgow Sessions is to grow onto platforms like BBC Sounds and reach a wider international audience with the voices, stories, and languages that make this city what it is – and your support is a huge part of making that happen. Glasgow Sessions is created and hosted by Richard Lee.

Straight from the heart of Partick Studios, this episode of Glasgow Sessions brings together four powerful poetic voices for a deep, honest conversation about writing, identity, health, and the cultural fabric of Glasgow. Joined by Dean, Greg, Harry, and Annie (Taeside), we move beyond performance and into reflection - exploring what it means to write, why creativity so often grows from vulnerability, and how place, body, and self shape the work we put into the world. These conversations are thoughtful, unguarded, and quietly searching, touching on lived experience as much as language. This is an episode that takes its time. One that invites you to listen closely, sit with difficult questions, and consider the nature of writing not just as craft, but as practice, process, and survival. With thanks to today’s poets: Dean — @tsangman93 Greg — @GRS/. Harry — @harrywritesabit__ Annie — @she.is.a.knee & @taeside_regent 🎧 Available now on Spotify, Apple Music, and Prime Music.

In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, I’m joined in the studio by Glasgow-based singer-songwriter Zara Louise for an intimate acoustic session and conversation. Zara performs her songs Fool and Desire, and we’re also treated to a world-exclusive first listen to one of her brand-new tracks, Stagnant, set to appear on her upcoming EP. Alongside the music, we talk about Zara’s journey as an artist, the stories and experiences that shape her songwriting, and what truly drives her creative process. It’s a relaxed, honest session that offers a deeper insight into both the songs and the person behind them.

🎙️✨ Glasgow Sessions — Live Poetry at Hillhead Book Club ✨📖 In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, we head to Poets’ Corner Glasgow 📍 at the iconic Hillhead Book Club for a powerful night of live poetry and spoken word 🎤🔥, recorded on 15th September 2025. Hosted by the brilliant Emry Beatie (@lochlurker) and Silouan (@silouanarts) 🌿🎙️, the evening brought together an inspiring mix of voices from across Glasgow’s thriving poetry scene. 🖋️ Featuring performances from: ✨ Louis Keyes ✨ Jim Ewing ✨ Nate Begg ✨ Gotham’s Calling ✨ Innately Unconventional ✨ And the first-ever poetry reading from Glasgow poet Myles-Elio 🌙📚 ✨ Plus selected poems from Glasgow Sessions 📚 Themes explored in this episode: 🔍 Self-exploration & identity 🌿 Tradition & inheritance 🤍 Childbirth, creation & beginnings 🛠️ Work, labour & everyday experience This episode captures the atmosphere of a live poetry night — intimate, reflective, and deeply human ✨🖤. A celebration of language, community, and creative expression in the heart of Glasgow 🏙️📖. 🎧 Recorded live at Hillhead Book Club, Glasgow.

🎙️✨ Glasgow Sessions — Live Poetry at Hillhead Book Club ✨📖 In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, we head to Poets’ Corner Glasgow 📍 at the iconic Hillhead Book Club for a powerful night of live poetry and spoken word 🎤🔥, recorded on 15th September 2025. Hosted by the brilliant Emry Beatie (@lochlurker) and Silouan (@silouanarts) 🌿🎙️, the evening brought together an inspiring mix of voices from across Glasgow’s thriving poetry scene. 🖋️ Featuring performances from: ✨ Louis Keyes ✨ Jim Ewing ✨ Nate Begg ✨ Gotham’s Calling ✨ Innately Unconventional ✨ And the first-ever poetry reading from Glasgow poet Myles-Elio 🌙📚 ✨ Plus selected poems from Glasgow Sessions 📚 Themes explored in this episode: 🔍 Self-exploration & identity 🌿 Tradition & inheritance 🤍 Childbirth, creation & beginnings 🛠️ Work, labour & everyday experience This episode captures the atmosphere of a live poetry night — intimate, reflective, and deeply human ✨🖤. A celebration of language, community, and creative expression in the heart of Glasgow 🏙️📖. 🎧 Recorded live at Hillhead Book Club, Glasgow.

🎙️ This week on Glasgow Sessions, host Richard Lee sits down with the brilliantly talented Emry Beattie (@lochlurker) — a Glasgow-based poet whose words move, challenge, and inspire 💫 📝 Emry is the host of Poet’s Corner at Hillhead Bookclub, where every Wednesday from 8pm–10pm, voices rise, emotions flow, and poetry takes centre stage 🎤✨ In this episode, expect deep chats, plenty of insights, and some truly mesmerising poetry from Emry 🌙💭 Together, they explore creativity, mythology, family histories, and the healing power of words — this one’s not to be missed! 💜 📲 Listen NOW on your favourite platform: ➡️ Spotify 🎧 ➡️ Apple Podcasts 🍏 ➡️ Amazon Music 🔥 🎉 Support the podcast at Patreon.com/GlasgowSessions 💜 Every bit helps us keep the conversations flowing! 👇 Follow & connect: @glasgowsessions 💬 @lochlurker 🌿 #GlasgowSessions #PoetryCommunity #SpokenWord #MentalHealthMatters #GlasgowCreatives #PodcastDrop #PoetryLovers #Wellbeing #ScottishPoetry #HillheadBookclub #CreativeConversations 🌆📚🪶

🎙️ Welcome back to Glasgow Sessions! In this episode, your host Richard Lee sits down with three brilliant Glasgow poets — Tyler Kerr, Cat Cochrane & Hannah Doyle ✨. We’re diving deep into the world of words, creativity, and the real-life stories behind the poems. Expect heartfelt performances 🎤 that’ll hit you right in the feels ❤️, alongside some open and honest chats about mental health 🧠. Each poet shares their own ways of looking after themselves — from daily rituals to little acts of kindness that keep them grounded 🌱. But don’t worry, it’s not all heavy — there are plenty of laughs 😂 along the way. Tyler, Cat, and Hannah bring not just their poetry, but their personality, humour, and warmth to the mic, making this a truly special session. It’s that perfect mix of meaningful conversations + good vibes 💫. Whether you’re a poetry lover 📚, someone curious about how creatives look after their wellbeing 🌸, or just in the mood for a good listen while you’re out on a walk 🚶, cooking dinner 🍳, or chilling with a cuppa ☕ — this one’s for you. So plug in your headphones 🎧, hit play ▶️, and join us for an episode that celebrates creativity, community, and the power of speaking openly about mental health. Trust us, you won’t want to miss this one 💥. #GlasgowSessions #PoetryCommunity #MentalHealthMatters #GlasgowCreatives #PodcastLife #SpokenWord #PoetryLovers #Wellbeing

In this episode of Glasgow Sessions, host Richard Lee takes listeners on a journey through some of the city’s most iconic live music spaces. ✨ First stop is The Aragon on Byres Road, a cornerstone of Glasgow’s West End tradition. Here, Irish fiddle virtuoso Rowan Leslie joins forces with Andrew Waite, the innovative accordionist from the Borders, alongside Aly MacKenzie of the six-piece band TRIP, with Darren and Patrick completing the line-up. Together, they create an electrifying set that blends Scottish and Irish roots with jazz, contemporary improvisation, and the unmistakable energy of Glasgow’s live scene. 🍻 Next, Richard visits The Park Bar on Argyle Street, a legendary institution since 1895 and long-time gathering place for Highland and Island communities in the city. Listeners are treated to a session featuring Orin Simpson on accordion, David Small on guitar, Ruairidh Iain Buxton on flute, Finlay MacVicar on smallpipes and voice, and Aly Williams on pipes and whistle – musicians who embody tradition while pushing it forward. 🔥 Finally, the episode captures an impromptu set from the legendary Gunna Sound, thanks to a tip-off from Glasgow poet Ross Wilcock. With Campbell Brown on accordion and Johnny Scoular on guitar, the duo deliver the west coast ceilidh sound that has made them one of Scotland’s most respected acts for over four decades. Throughout the episode, Richard reflects on Glasgow’s unique role in keeping Scottish and Irish traditional music alive, intimate, and constantly evolving. 🎧 Listen now: 🟦 Spotify 🍏 Apple Podcasts 🛒 Amazon Music 👉 Behind-the-scenes updates → Instagram @glasgowsessions 💌 Support the project → Patreon.com/GlasgowSessions #GlasgowSessions #LiveMusicGlasgow #TradMusic #ScottishMusic #IrishMusic #Ceilidh #FolkMusic #CelticConnections #ByresRoad #ParkBar #WestEndGlasgow #GlasgowTradScene #RowanLeslie #AndrewWaite #TRIPBand #GunnaSound #CeolAnAire #Rhuvaal #EriskaBand #AlyWilliamsBand #SupportLiveMusic #ScottishCulture #GlasgowLife #HighlandMusic #GaelicSong #FiddleMusic #AccordionMusic #Smallpipes #FluteMusic #FolkFusion #WestCoastSound

✨ Episode 2 of Glasgow Sessions is here, and it’s a good one! This time around, host Richard Lee hangs out with two brilliant poets — Kaci O’Meara and Dev McMath 🎤📖. Together, they read from their own work, share stories about life as writers, and chat honestly about where their inspiration comes from. Expect laughter, insight, and a few surprises along the way 👀. Of course, no session would be complete without a touch of original music 🎶 and a few shoutouts to the amazing Glasgow community that makes it all possible. This episode digs into what poetry means today, how tradition still shapes it, and why Glasgow is quickly becoming one of the hottest spots in the UK for creative talent 🌟✍️. Glasgow isn’t just a city — it’s a vibe. The mix of voices, cultures, and stories here is making it a real home for poets, and honestly, it feels like something special is happening 💫. 👉 Follow Kaci on Insta: @dollgrrrl_poet 👉 Follow Dev: @devmcmath 👉 And don’t forget to give us a follow too: @glassgowsessions to keep up with all the latest ✨

🎙️ Join Richard Lee as he dives into Glasgow’s lively music 🎶 and poetry ✍️ scene, capturing the authentic sounds and stories from beloved local venues 🏛️. ✨ In this episode: 📖 Start off at The Poetry Experiment @ The Alchemy Experiment, where raw, original performances 🎤 are curated by passionate host and poet, Ross Wilcock, in one of the city’s most creative spaces 🎨. 🍻 Then, feel the community spirit at The Aragon on Byres Road, where musicians 🎻🎸 gather to play together and meet the welcoming staff 🤝 that make every session special. 🎵 Next episode enjoy exclusive trad music recorded live 🔴 with some of the city’s talented players. 👉 Tune in for great tunes 🎧, genuine voices 🗣️, and a taste of Glasgow’s true culture 🌆 — one venue at a time. Poets: 📚 @rossopenmic 🎤 @martinerowe96 📝 @devmcmath ✒️ @jameswililams 🌸 @dollgrrrl_poet 🎨 @dondedraws 🌍 @gusyuanzhoulv 🎶 @lyric.rudy   📸 Also check out @glasgowsessions on Instagram  💖 Support via patreon.com/GlasgowSessions 🙌