Swinging the Lead

‘Swinging the Lead’ have over ten years’ experience of singing Shanties and Maritime Folk songs and sing an entertaining mix of traditional and contemporary songs, including those written by members of the band.

We are regulars on the Shanty Festivals scene and perform at folk clubs and theatres around the UK, singing acapella and with a variety of musical instruments including mandolin, banjo, guitar, fiddle, percussion and harmonica.

Harwich Crew Bio Page

Swinging the Lead began singing shanties and maritime folk songs in 2010 and are based in North West Kent on the banks of the tidal River Thames. They have been the resident Shanty Singers on the famous tea clipper ‘Cutty Sark’ at her dry berth in Greenwich since 2011 and regularly perform at festivals in the UK and overseas. The band have their own unique style and their songs are performed with an upbeat, foot-tapping twist. Most of the members have sea going experience including on tall ships and all have a keen interest in the sea and maritime matters.