“This song is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and taking chances — whether it’s love or life.” — Twinnie’s “Hypothetically”
York native. Oldest of four children, raised in the Romani Travelling community in England. ‘I am a traveller by nature and by heritage, so I am quite free. I call myself now the ‘Hollywood Gypsy’ that’s me, my life, my artistry’.” Romani people are known for their nomadism. How has this lifestyle shaped the artist you are today?
I guess I’m used to being a free spirit and seeing where life takes me! I like not having a normal routine, so I feel like it complements the artist lifestyle as it’s always all over the place and spontaneous.
Began your journey in entertainment with your stage debut at age four. Growing up, the songs you listened to focused on storytelling — including ones from Dean Martin and The Rat Pack, Queen, Dolly Parton, Billy Joel, Gilbert O’Sullivan, and Bob Dylan. Storytelling evokes emotions. What songs always bring you back to cherished memories?
“She’s Always A Woman” by Billy Joel always reminds me of my dad — my younger years when my parents were still together.
Dolly Parton’s “Here You Come Again” always reminds me of helping my mum get ready to go out when I was little.
From watching Judy Garland and Fred Astaire in movie musicals to backing Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams as a singer/dancer, to lead roles in shows like Chicago and Rock of Ages in London’s West End theatres. Which musical lead is your dream role and why?
I already played it — Velma in Chicago! I think it’s one of the best female roles you can have. It has one of the best entrances and she really gets to highlight all 3 skills of dancing, singing and acting. The score of that musical and choreography are both timeless and classic.
Influenced by Parton, Tammy Wynette, and Shania Twain. Launched your solo music career in 2020. Moved to Nashville, with your dog Sunny, last year for the music. “I’ve still got a lot I wanna achieve but I can honestly say the biggest gift in moving to America is the people that make this place feel like home. … I’ve learnt so much about myself but the most important lesson I’ve learnt is that TIMING is everything and the times I’ve desperately tried to hold on to things that weren’t for me, have always held me back, and then as soon as I let go, something better comes.” Why is feeling uncomfortable a key to success?
I think it’s a natural process. You can’t expect to grow if you continue to do the same thing. Your new life is gonna cost you your old one — you have to let go of parts of yourself if you want to evolve and sometimes that’s uncomfortable.
Blue Hour (Before the Dawn) EP. “It’s been a wild ride writing Blue Hour, many a tear has been shed, a few breakdowns and I wanna give up moments. This project gave me a better understanding of myself, made me stronger and proved to me I can do anything I put my mind to.” Can you share a fan story of a song that helped them find their own closure?
One person’s story was pretty similar to mine and I feel like it helped them knowing that they were not alone in the feelings that they were feeling. “The Way I Loved You” had touched a lot of people. Some people have said it’s helped them grieve the loss of loved ones.
First British Gypsy to perform in the circle on the Grand Ole Opry stage, after being introduced by Opry member Jamey Johnson. “I feel seen, I feel worthy, and that I’m doing something right. … I hope if you’re ever thinking of giving up on your dream you don’t!! If I never do another thing in my music career at least I can say I played THE OPRY. This one’s for Yorkshire.” How did Johnson come to introduce you?
We met at a release party. I sent him my music and the rest is history! He then ever-so-kindly introduced me with one of the best intros anyone’s ever done. He is such a legend…a real gentleman!
Change the Conversation, founded by music executives Leslie Fram, Tracy Gershon, and Beverly Keel in 2014, advocates for gender equality within country music. CMT’s Next Women of Country, highlights and promotes up-and-coming female artists. As a member of the Class of 2024, the group will be mentored by Kimberly Perry and Colbie Caillat, and partnered with the female singer/songwriter collective, Song Suffragettes. A decade in, what still needs to be addressed for gender equality to be realized within the industry?
I think, honestly, a lot more to ensure that women have a place in country music. Every couple of years, you’ll see someone break out — but, other than that it’s the same people. There are so many outstanding female artists out there. Without things like CMT’s Next Women of Country or these other programs, they wouldn’t have a space to be highlighted.
“I always wanted to be in a girl band, so I thought, ‘Why not create a global one?’ I’ve seen so many people’s dreams get washed away from other people’s doubts and I was like, ‘I’m going to create something and the people that want to be involved in it will be involved in it.’ … It gives me more of a purpose if I feel like I can help people.” Co-founder of I Know A Woman Music and Wellness Fund, with Summer Overstreet, an initiative aimed at creating and promoting mental health and well-being in the music industry. What are some of the resources the Fund has been able to share with female artists?
A lot of mental health charities where they can get care! I Know A Woman welcomes everyone, women and men. It just highlights female creatives and their talent. It also provides spaces where they can write, collaborate and perform :)
“Hypothetically,” co-written with Reid Sorel and Grace Gunn. “This song is all about stepping out of your comfort zone and taking chances — whether it’s love or life. It’s flirty, fun, and unapologetically bold. I wanted my fans to see my carefree, daring side!” What inspired the co-write?
My crush ;)
You were the first British country artist to perform the American National Anthem at GEODIS Park in Nashville before the pro soccer game. What does it mean to you, as a British artist, to have this opportunity?
It’s very cool and very nerve-wracking!! But, it did feel like Nashville had accepted me as one of their own.
Performing a 45 minute set, along with a meet and greet to follow, on Nov. 2nd at the Country Music Hall of Fame.
Your sophomore album, Something We Used To Say, will be released on November 8th.
The Crazy Ex Tour will follow and promote the album across venues in London, Brighton, Manchester, York, and Glasgow. “There’s nothing like being on stage. This tour will be all about connecting with my fans on a personal level and showing them my gratitude. It’s going to be magical and full of joy!” How do your fans inspire you as an artist?
I love hearing their stories! Honestly, they uplift me and keep me going — so, I owe a lot to them.
Children’s entertainer was added to your resume with your song on Growin’ Up Country, Vol. 2. One of your goals is to be the first British female to have a #1 country song. What are the unique challenges to achieving this goal?
Well, firstly, I need a hit song that’s undeniable and people to be on board with it. Secondly, being a woman, it’s even harder as the charts reflect not many of them on there. Also, it costs a lot to go to radio!
Recently expanded your talents to the small screen, joining the cast of ‘Emmerdale,’ the UK’s longest-running and beloved soap opera. Taking on the role of Jade, a ruthless boxing promoter, further cementing your versatility as both a musician and actress. Speaking about the new role, you shared, “My life has been a bit crazy recently juggling music and acting with lots of back and forth between Nashville and Yorkshire, but I’ve been loving it!”
No stranger to the acting world — having previously portrayed Nikki Allcott on ‘Doctors (BBC One)’ in 2013 and the notable role as Porsche McQueen on Hollyoaks in 2014. Your portrayal of Porsche brought important issues, such as childhood sexual abuse, to light, and and earned nominations for a British Soap Award for Best Newcomer and an Inside Soap Award.
What’s ahead in 2025?
HAPPY HOUR… new era with a lot more shows for you to come see!!