Bio
Based in the North West of England, folk singer, musician, writer and multi instrumentalist, Ian F Ball, has been playing in bands and performing as a solo artist, on and off, for the last 50 years. Ian's music has been influenced by a wide range of artists from Big Bill Broonzy and The Copper Family via Arthur Askey and The Purple Gang to Ralph McTell and Fairport Convention, and everything in between.
“Good singing, good tunes and good playing." Pete Coe.
Singing traditional folk songs for many years it wasn't until lockdown in 2020 that he started to write his own songs in the traditional style.
He thought that he'd achieve this ambition much earlier though, having bought his first guitar aged 14 from Boots the Chemist and was then excited to become a singer songwriter.
He's not been treading water though during that 50 year hiatus. Becoming an accomplished Melodeon player, Ian self-published a book of tunes in the 90s, 'One Too Many'. The title tune was picked up by UK based Belshazzar's Feast and played on track one of their debut album of the same name. Other tunes have been picked up and recorded by bands on both sides of the Atlantic.
“Excellent story telling” Ken Nicol – Steeleye Span, The Albion Band.
2025 sees the release of Ian's first full album, 'Better Late Than Never', described as an eclectic mix of homespun stories and tunes, released on 1st August 2025.
"A brilliant album, with twists and turns throughout. (Better Late Than Never -Album Released August 2025)" Paul Hutchinson - Belshazzar's Feast
Ian is excited to share his music and songs with the folk world, If you would like Ian to visit your club then don't hesitate to get in touch.
"This is a very polished album I thoroughly enjoyed listening to and it will be appreciated by anyone who enjoys the tradition done well. In terms of storytelling and music it ticks all the boxes. (Better Late Than Never -Album Released August 2025)" FATEA Magazine
"In that long line of minstrels and storytellers, Ian is among those who ensure that we know the stories that would otherwise be lost in time." David Gray - Salford City Radio
Look out for him at a folk club near you soon, or you can find him on your favourite streaming platform.