I’ve spent half a century listening to music, so choosing only 13 albums was a huge challenge. Making lists about music is not my forte, but I started with the idea that these are among my favourite albums at this present moment. Some of these choices may seem obvious, while others might surprise you, and a few may appear out of place. I’ve not deliberately chosen obscure records, and a few of these albums, I’m sure, are on many music fans’ lists. They include favourites from my childhood when music was dictated by my family’s record collection. There are a few from my teenage years, when music was my greatest lifeline. I’ve had to exclude many beloved albums from that period that could easily have made the list. More recently released albums are by artists already well established in my music library. Each chosen album stands out in its own way, and each artist’s distinctive presence, iconic voice and live performances have left a lasting impression, mapping a musical pathway to where I am now.
I feel sure that great artists like Kate Bush, Debbie Harry, The Kinks, Nico, Leonard Cohen, Beth Gibbons and Karen Carpenter have influenced how my voice developed, what I write about, and who I listen to now. When I write songs, I’m not consciously aware of the albums I’ve selected influencing the process; no doubt they play a role in the sonic landscape I create. More importantly, my chosen artists possess unique voices that demand to be heard and incredible storytelling abilities. I would never compare myself to their brilliance, but when I listen to my songs, I like to think I hear echoes of these indirect singing and music teachers from my past. I hope my new album, Sea Fever, captures even a hint of these artists’ individuality and musical experimentation.
It is the greatest compliment when another artist you love and respect enjoys your music. The resurgence of Black Box Recorder owes much to Billie Eilish’s interest in the song ‘Child Psychology’, which has helped grow our social media audience. My daughters, Ava and Lola, have played a big part in drawing me into the world of Billie. In 2017, Ava introduced me to her song ‘Ocean Eyes’, while Lola got me singing along to the entirety of Hit Me Hard And Soft. We even went to see Billie perform at the O2 Arena in London in 2025. She truly is a charismatic singer. My son Reuben has kept me in the loop on how Black Box Recorder is doing on social media, and Ava regularly informs me of the streaming statistics. I think it’s safe to say that my children are happy with this wave of new interest. They are all coming to watch Black Box Recorder play at the London Palladium in May. Now, people are discovering my solo work, too, and it feels wonderful to receive messages of appreciation. It inspires me to keep writing, singing, and releasing music.
Sarah Nixey’s new album Sea Fever is out now. A newly reformed Black Box Recorder perform at the London Palladium on 22 May.
To begin reading Sarah Nixey’s Baker’s Dozen, click ‘First Selection’ below
