DAVID LLEWELLYN
Coal dust and the small coal mining valleys of South Wales supplied a down to earth upbringing whose values and early lessons he still holds dear. But at seventeen, with a jacket and guitar in hand he left home to begin what has been a lifelong passion. The workingman's clubs of South Wales, the same anvil that forged Tom Jones, became the proving ground, the trial by fire, and a successful 10 year career followed for David as a singer.

By the late 80's, the UK had become all about computers, drum machines and samplers, but a chance listening to a Randy Travis CD, full of acoustic instruments and a more organic heart felt approach to music, sparked an interest in the American music scene.

Arriving in '91, David dived into a career as a singer/songwriter and a move to Nashville to sign with a Music Row publisher followed in '96. "But at some point I realized that I had not returned to Wales in 10 years, and as soon as I took my first breath of the valley's air . . I knew that although the wonderful songwriting cities of Austin and Nashville may have honed my skills, and taught me the "craft", it was Wales, it's Celtic traditions and working class communities, that I had to draw from for my inspiration, and that has increasingly drawn me back to my roots. I was part of the first generation not to go down the mines, and I've always felt thankful for that."

The inclusion of one of David's original songs about a young child's first day working "underground", and his father's heart breaking thoughts, touched a general nerve at this year's "New Folk" competition at the Kerrville Folk Festival, and gained David a winning spot this year. The Texas festival has become a regular place of pilgrimage for David. Appearing on the main stage with Cindy Greene in '02, "New Folk" finalist in '03 and '04, a featured performer in '05, and now a "New Folk" winner this year, his songs and rich baritone can be heard long into the predawn hours around many a campfire. (scroll down for more)

His first US released CD "David Llewellyn" (2004) quickly gained top 10 radio plays on the FolkDJ charts and has proved a fast seller at gigs and house concerts around this country and back home with tours in Wales, Ireland and the UK.

In December 2007, David released "Limited Edition," a CD of live guitar/vocals made up of songs about his upbringing in the culture of Wales. Additional touches were added by the talented Celtic multi-instrumentalist/producer, John Mock. A short run of 250 of these were manufactured, which have quickly sold out (copies are available for review and submissions).

David is currently in the studio recording additional tracks and adding some familiar faces on harmony and instrumentals before this CD will go into full production. A national/international release date towards the fall, and a full radio promotion/tour will follow.