Frazey Ford

Frazey Ford (born February 11, 1973) is a Canadian singer‑songwriter and actress known for her distinctive fusion of folk, soul, Americana, and roots music. She emerged as a powerful voice in the folk revival of the early 2000s and has since developed a critically acclaimed solo career marked by emotional depth, soulful vocals, and genre‑blending songwriting.

🎶 Early Career & The Be Good Tanyas

Frazey Ford first gained prominence as a founding member of the Vancouver‑based folk trio The Be Good Tanyas, formed in the late 1990s. The group became influential on the Americana and alt‑folk scene with their dreamy harmonies, traditional instrumentation, and heartfelt storytelling.

🎤 Solo Work and Style

After years with The Be Good Tanyas, Ford launched her solo career with her debut album Obadiah in 2010. The album showcased her transition from folk into deeper soul and R&B influences, blending rustic roots sounds with rich, emotive vocal delivery. Its title comes from her middle name, chosen by her brothers when she was born.

Her subsequent albums continued to expand her musical palette:

• Indian Ocean (2014) — A soul‑infused record recorded in Memphis with members of Al Green’s Hi Rhythm Section, earning critical praise and a Juno Award nomination and making the Polaris Music Prize long list. starbellyjam.org

• U Kin B the Sun (2020) — A lush, rhythmic work blending soul, folk, and percussive grooves, widely acclaimed as one of her strongest artistic statements. starbellyjam.org

Ford’s sound is often described as soul‑Americana, with influences spanning folk, country, rhythm & blues, and classic soul. Her voice has prompted comparisons to artists like Ann Peebles, Roberta Flack, and Feist for its expressive warmth and emotional nuance.

🎭 Acting & Other Work

In addition to music, Frazey Ford has appeared in film and television, including a role on The L Word and in the holiday film The Christmas Calendar.

🎤 Live Performance & Legacy

Known for intimate and soulful live shows, Ford has toured internationally, captivating audiences with her warm stage presence and deeply felt songs. Her work continues to push the boundaries of contemporary folk and soul music, rooted in sincerity and emotional resonance.