Quick Facts
Biography
Jake Morley (born 1 August 1983) is a British singer-songwriter, based in north London.
Early life
Morley grew up in Mill Hill, London. He learned guitar at an early age and began writing songs whilst at Mill Hill County High School in north west London. After studying law at Nottingham University for three years, Morley returned to London and started performing on the London open mic scene.
2008-2009
Morley began recording in 2008, and released of his first EP, This City later the same year. A popular artist on the London circuit, Morley played the MS Calling charity gig at the 100 Club where he met double bassist John Parker (formerly of Nizlopi), drummer Harry Mead and sound engineer Phill Brown (Bob Marley / Talk Talk / Faithless) who recorded and co-produced Morley's debut album. Also in attendance was Calum MacColl (Rokia Traore / Ronan Keating / Eddi Reader) who played guitar on and also co-produced the album.
2010 - Many Fish To Fry
In January 2010 Morley, along with Phill Brown and Calum MacColl, started recording Many Fish To Fry. With recording, mixing and over dubs continuing for a few months. Morley returned to live performances in March.
In April 2010 secured a residency at Ronnie Scott's playing once a month all the way through to December.
Towards the end of 2010, Morley joined forces with Kerry Harvey-Piper, of Red Grape Records who took on the role of being his manager.
2011
Morley's debut album Many Fish To Fry was released in February 2011 on his own independent label. After a short UK tour, Morley held his album launch party at London's Bush Hall, where his performance received much critical acclaim.
In March 2011, Morley's debut single 'Feet Don't Fail Me Now' was played on Dermot O'Leary's Saturday afternoon BBC Radio 2 show,. On 5 May Morley headlined the City Showcase after party at the 100 Club and later performed a live set on Janice Long's show. Janice Long recommended 'Feet Don't Fail Me Now' as the featured live track of the week on Jo Whiley's Radio 2 Live In Concert.
YouTube
Morley's video for 'This City'was included in a Best Guitarist on the Web video created by ITN.
Reviews
He is certainly something else! Very Charismatic, warm and a fantastic singer and guitar player.
— Janice Long, Radio 2
Jake Morley and his impressive band more than have what it takes… an ambitious pop sound that is every bit as bright and sparkly as the main player himself - 4 stars
— The Independent
A sound that can’t be ignored. Morley can do no wrong, and a wealth of fans can’t get enough. 9/10
— Virgin.com
Great real life lyrics and superb virtuoso playing. That's extraordinary!
— Tom Robinson, 6 music
Jake Morley is not just your average bloke with guitar, he stuns crowds with his unique style and is always a show stealer.
— BBC Introducing
It's phenomenal to watch him but it's still more daunting to consider that he also sings up a storm and writes cracking songs. Morley is a true original
— Acoustic Magazine
This is a man to follow, not just on social media sites, but in real life whenever he plays a gig. This is music to cherish.
— Music Riot
Luke Haines Power Trio
Morley plays bass guitar in the live band of Luke Haines when the former leader of The Auteurs performs as "The Luke Haines Power Trio".
Discography
Extended plays
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 2008 | This City E.P |
Albums
| Year | Title |
|---|---|
| 2011 | Many Fish To Fry |
| 2015 | The Manual |
Singles
| Year | Single | Peak positions | Album | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011 | "Feet Don't Fail Me Now" | - | - | Many Fish To Fry |