Veronica Howle: The Soulful Voice of Modern Blues-Rock

Veronica Howle is a British blues-rock singer and guitarist known for her powerful vocals and raw, emotive songwriting. Hailing from Manchester, she achieved mainstream recognition with her 2018 debut album 'Rust & Bone,' which charted in the UK Top 20 and earned a gold certification.

Early career

Born in 1992, Veronica Howle began her musical journey in the vibrant pubs and clubs of Manchester. Her early years were spent honing a gritty, soul-infused sound, leading to the self-release of her first EP, 'The Northern Line,' in 2015.

This independent release caught the attention of several indie labels, culminating in a signing with the respected blues and rock specialist label, Delta Tone Records, in early 2017.

Breakthrough

Howle's breakthrough arrived in 2018 with the release of her debut album, 'Rust & Bone,' on Delta Tone. The album's lead single, 'Whiskey & Rain,' became a staple on rock radio, propelling the album to number 17 on the UK Albums Chart.

Supported by extensive touring, 'Rust & Bone' was certified gold in the United Kingdom within ten months, a significant feat for a debut in the blues-rock genre.

Key tracks

Whiskey & Rain — This charting single defined her signature sound and became her first major radio hit.

Steel Behind the Smile — A fan favorite from 'Rust & Bone' known for its blistering guitar solo and candid lyrics.

Blackpool Lights — This later single from her sophomore album showcased a more expansive, anthemic production style.

Anchorless — A powerful ballad highlighting Howle's vocal range and emotional depth, often a setlist highlight.

Continued success and collaborations

Her 2021 follow-up, 'Iron Heart,' debuted at number 12 in the UK, featuring a collaboration with veteran guitarist Bernie Marsden on the track 'Long Road Home.' Howle has maintained a consistent touring profile across Europe, performing at major festivals like Glastonbury's Avalon Stage and the Ramblin' Man Fair.

Her music continues to evolve, blending classic blues-rock with elements of folk and Americana, while her lyrical themes of resilience and authenticity resonate with a growing audience. She remains with Delta Tone Records, with industry watchers anticipating a third studio album.

Fans of Veronica Howle's brand of passionate blues-rock should also explore Joanne Shaw Taylor. This British guitarist delivers a similarly searing and technically accomplished take on modern blues. Listen to The Dead Weather for a darker, more garage-rock infused approach to the blues tradition. The soulful power of Yola shares a clear lineage with Howle's vocal delivery and songcraft. For another UK-based artist merging rock intensity with blues feeling, try King King.

Veronica Howle's music has earned regular rotation on a variety of radio formats featured on this website. Her tracks are commonly heard on classic rock FM stations, modern rock radio channels, and dedicated online blues streams, reflecting her broad cross-genre appeal.

Listeners can discover the powerful blues-rock of Veronica Howle by tuning into the radio stations available on onairium.com, where her hits and deep cuts are regularly featured in playlists.