ANNIE HASLAM

Annie Haslam has one of the most remarkable voices in progressive music. A five-octave range gives her not only tremendous vocal versatility, but has also helped to make her instantly recognisable.

The singer first came to the fore in 1971 when she joined Renaissance, and has spent the decades since leading the band. Their most successful period was definitely in the 70s, thanks to albums like Turn Of The Cards (1974), Scheherazade And Other Stories (1975) and Live At Carnegie Hall (1976), plus the surprise UK top 10 single Northern Lights in 1978.

Since those halcyon days, the band have undergone many line-up changes, as well as being on hiatus between 1987-1998 and 2002-2009, but throughout Haslam has remained steadfast, a guiding light with a firm vision of how Renaissance should sound.

Haslam’s own achievements go beyond just being the singer and, these days, the manager of Renaissance. She has had a successful solo career, and has collaborated with the likes of Steve Howe and Magenta. Since 2002, Haslam has also established an impressive alternate career as a visual artist, not only painting canvases, but also musical instruments.

Haslam has always had a broad creative impulse; before joining Renaissance, she was studying fashion in Cornwall and then worked for a tailor in the exclusive Savile Row area of London.

The vocalist has also had to contend with health issues. In 1993 she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and her battle against this disease inspired her 1994 solo album Blessing In Disguise.

Born in Bolton but now living in Pennsylvania, Haslam is as active and in demand as she’s ever been. She readily admits that her life story has had many ups and downs, as well as amusing moments. A firm believer in being the best person