Emerging Showcase: Ellen Beth Abdi + Janileigh Cohen

December’s Emerging Showcase features two exciting artists Ellen Beth Abdi and Janileigh Cohen.

Mancunian music-maker Ellen Beth Abdi uses live loops, pokey drums, undulating synths and quietly subversive lyrics to mould her unique sound. Ellen pops up in many areas of the Manchester scene, providing lead and backing vocals (and keys) for legendary indie/alternative bands in the city. From supporting The Stone Roses at Wembley Stadium, touring with New Order for their seminal MIF shows and most recently touring and recording with A Certain Ratio (all by the age of 28). Ellen is now focused on her solo music.

Ellen’s enchanting and distinctive sound has gained her spots at Manchester International Festival, and support slots for Olivia Dean, Hollie Cooke, Ishmael Ensemble, Oscar Jerome and Allysha Joy. She was invited to collaborate live with music legend Angélique Kidjo, opening Aviva Studios for Manchester International Festival 2023.

Having been taken under the wing of the old guard of Manchester, while being very much representing the new school: Ellen has had a unique mentorship allowing her to learn from the best. The synergy between past and present allowing her to develop a well-rounded, nuanced skill set and an innate appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage. Of which she is an integral part.

Her debut solo album was released on 23 May 2025 on her own label Sweet Twenty-Three records via Republic of Music.

Janileigh Cohen’s music began quietly. Songs written in a shed at the bottom of her grandmother’s garden in rural Lancashire, inspired by Bob Dylan, Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell. Those early, solitary beginnings have since rippled outward in unexpected ways.

A piano cover of Nick Cave’s The Ship Song led to a sync in the acclaimed Australian film Blueback, while her rendition of Jackson C. Frank’s timeless Blues Run the Game featured in an episode of the Emmy Award–winning US drama This Is Us.

Her debut album As a Child, released in March 2026, was recorded with an array of stellar musicians from Manchester to Nashville, made possible in part through the generous support of her listeners.

It is a quietly assured debut, born out of a longing for a family, forgiveness and learning to let go.