Bio

Alex Hodgson – Scottish Folk Singer, Songwriter & Entertainer

Alex Hodgson is a Scottish folk singer-songwriter and entertainer whose music captures the essence of Scotland’s history, humor, and heritage. Hailing from Prestonpans, East Lothian, Alex’s warm vocals and engaging storytelling have made him a standout figure in the Scottish folk scene. His music reflects a strong sense of place, with themes often drawn from his own experiences, the legacy of coal mining in his community, and the poetry of Scotland’s national bard, Robert Burns.

A finalist in the Burnsong songwriting competition in 2005 and 2009, Alex has performed on BBC Radio Scotland’s Hogmanay Show and the legendary Take The Floor with Robbie Shepherd. His talent has taken him to Balmoral Castle, where he performed at Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III Ghillie Balls, as well as the Scottish Parliament, the Waterside Theatre in Cape Town, South Africa, and the Caledonian Society Ball in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Signed to Greentrax Recordings, Alex has released several acclaimed albums that celebrate his heritage, local history, and the working lives of ordinary Scots. His debut album, Jeelie Jars ‘n’ Coalie Backies (2010), showcases his storytelling prowess and musical talent, His 2014 release, The Brig Tae Nae Where, blends original compositions with interpretations of works by Robert Burns and Ewan MacColl, weaving nautical themes with personal and regional stories.

Influence of Coal Mining on His Songwriting

Hodgson’s music frequently pays homage to Scotland’s industrial past, particularly the coal mining industry that shaped many communities in East Lothian. Coal mining was not only an economic backbone for the region but also a way of life, passing through generations. This deep connection is evident in his 2024 album Doon Where The Glennie Burns, a heartfelt tribute to the coal miners who played a vital role in his local history, including Hodgson's late father. His songs vividly capture the toil and danger of life underground, the pride of those who worked in the pits, and the impact of the industry’s decline on local communities.

His earlier works also reflect this theme, as seen in Jeelie Jars ‘n’ Coalie Backies, where he evokes nostalgia for a simpler, yet hardworking life. Hodgson’s ability to blend personal memories with broader historical narratives makes his music resonate with those who share a connection to Scotland’s industrial heritage.

The Influence of Robert Burns

Hodgson’s songwriting is also heavily influenced by Robert Burns, whose poetry often depicted the struggles and triumphs of ordinary Scots. Burns, himself the son of a farmer, wrote with deep empathy for the working class, a trait that Hodgson carries into his own compositions. He has recorded interpretations of Burns’ works, incorporating the bard’s themes of love, labor, and social justice into his own music.

Burns' influence can be felt in Hodgson’s poetic lyrics and the way he crafts songs that feel both personal and universal. Whether singing about miners, fishermen, or the landscapes of Scotland, Hodgson continues the Burnsian tradition of using music as a means of preserving history and honoring the lives of everyday people. His album The Brig Tae Nae Where includes both original songs and adaptations of Burns’ poetry, further solidifying his role as a modern-day folk storyteller.

A Keeper of Scottish Traditions

Beyond his music, Alex has a deep passion for Scottish variety theatre and storytelling, having performed in numerous stage productions and events such as the Newton Mearns Storytelling Festival and workshops at Edinburgh’s City Arts Centre. He is also a familiar voice on Scottish radio, regularly appearing on Forth 2 Radio’s The Best of Scottish with Kenny Hutchison, where he performs a new song live each week, and previously hosted The Sunday Gaitherin’ on Radio Borders.

His music has been featured in historical exhibitions and on prestigious compilations alongside artists such as The Proclaimers, The Battlefield Band, and Aly Bain. His song The Reel John Bellany was included in a tribute album to the celebrated Scottish artist, appearing alongside works by The Corries and Phil Cunningham.

With a career spanning music, theatre, and radio, Alex Hodgson is a true ambassador of Scottish folk culture. Whether performing on stage, over the airwaves, or in intimate storytelling sessions, he continues to share the spirit of Scotland with audiences at home and around the world.