Norma Waterson

Norma Waterson (1939–2022) was a highly respected English folk singer, renowned for her profound contributions to the genre and her role in the celebrated Waterson family. Born in Hull, East Yorkshire, she grew up immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of folk music, which shaped her illustrious career. In the 1960s, Norma, alongside her siblings Lal and Mike Waterson, formed The Watersons, a folk group that became seminal in the British folk revival, known for their harmonious a cappella renditions and traditional English repertoire. Norma's distinctive voice, characterized by its depth and emotional resonance, became a hallmark of the group. After The Watersons disbanded in the late 1960s, she worked as a radio presenter before returning to music. In the early 1990s, she released her critically acclaimed self-titled solo album. Norma also collaborated with her husband Martin Carthy and their daughter Eliza Carthy, in the group Waterson:Carthy, which further cemented her position in the folk music landscape. Waterson's influence extended beyond her recordings; she was a revered figure in live performances, where her commitment to tradition and her heartfelt delivery left a lasting impact on audiences and fellow musicians alike.