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posts on ‘music news’

16 days til I give it another shot…

16 days til I give it another shot…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
When I quit touring at the end of 2019, I never expected my break to last this long. Burned out from 10 years of solo performing, always being the driver/roadie/merch ... Read more
May 15, 2025May 15, 2025
The chart results are in –

The chart results are in –

by Laura Kidd House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Process
As I type these words, the results are in. It’s 5.51pm and I’ve been ignoring the internet all day, knowing that at some point a number will be assigned to ... Read more
April 25, 2025May 15, 2025 Comment
This is what your copy looks like :)

This is what your copy looks like :)

by Laura Kidd House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Process
No, your local record shop does NOT have copies of my new album! The ONLY place you can get “House Of Stories” on vinyl, CDs and KiT is my shop: ... Read more
April 24, 2025April 30, 2025 Comment
#28 in the Official UK Midweek Albums Chart!

#28 in the Official UK Midweek Albums Chart!

by Laura Kidd House Of Stories Letterbox Music News
WHOAH. “My new album is “House Of Stories” is #28 in the Official UK Midweek Albums Chart. And my name is mentioned casually alongside Taylor Swift, Doechii and Hawkwind in ... Read more
April 22, 2025April 24, 2025 Comment
“In The Light Sometimes” – Penfriend

“In The Light Sometimes” – Penfriend

by Laura Kidd House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
🎸 🏠 Your copy of my new album “House Of Stories” is waiting for you here, now shipping worldwide: https://shop.penfriend.rocks/collections/penfriend-house-of-stories The album is available on super limited edition vinyl colours, ... Read more
April 19, 2025April 19, 2025 Comment
Warning: my legs and feet are visible in this video!

Warning: my legs and feet are visible in this video!

by Laura Kidd Creativity House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Process
Thoughts about stepping back – literally… During the pandemic I remember reading an article about how one of the ways living in close proximity was changing peoples’ relationships was the ... Read more
April 17, 2025April 18, 2025
Digital Music

Digital Music

by Laura Kidd Music News
Due to VAT rules on digital products, I can’t sell downloads direct from my beautiful shop. Thank goodness for Bandcamp! -> Get Penfriend and Obey Robots albums, free singles and ... Read more
April 11, 2025April 11, 2025 Comment
What rhymes with “bop hen”?!!

What rhymes with “bop hen”?!!

by Laura Kidd Essays House Of Stories Letterbox Music News
We’re really going for it this time… Last week I wrote about how underground punk legend John Otway’s books and film have been inspiring me to cook up the most ... Read more
March 31, 2025April 18, 2025 Comment
I blame John Otway

I blame John Otway

by Laura Kidd Essays House Of Stories Letterbox Music News
Four weeks from today I am releasing my sixth solo album “House Of Stories”: my celebration of age, experience and (hopefully) wisdom. Helping me face up to ghosts from my ... Read more
March 21, 2025April 18, 2025 Comment
Sometimes it’s better to wait

Sometimes it’s better to wait

by Laura Kidd Creativity Essays House Of Stories Letterbox Music News
Ten days ago I wrote 1,208 rather self-pitying words about my situation as an independent musician. I was tired, perhaps a little burned out, and feeling overwhelmed by the big ... Read more
March 14, 2025April 18, 2025 1 Comment
“The Life Of The Party” – Penfriend

“The Life Of The Party” – Penfriend

by Laura Kidd House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
🎸 Get this song PLUS THREE more immediately when you order your copy of my new album “House Of Stories”, out 18th April 2025. The album is available on super limited edition ... Read more
March 13, 2025March 13, 2025 Comment
My #1 album is two years old…and I have something to tell you

My #1 album is two years old…and I have something to tell you

by Laura Kidd House Of Stories Letterbox Music News
It’s two years since my collaboration album “One In A Thousand” topped the Official UK Independent Albums Chart, and I have something to tell you. Something strange and magical happens ... Read more
March 7, 2025March 9, 2025 Comment
Penfriend LIVE online: Wed 5th March, 8pm (UK time)

Penfriend LIVE online: Wed 5th March, 8pm (UK time)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances Music News
Tap here to set up a reminder, watch on the night or watch anytime afterwards x Share this: ... Read more
February 27, 2025February 27, 2025 Comment
I made this to make you smile

I made this to make you smile

by Laura Kidd Creativity Essays House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Productivity Space, Man
I made this to make you smile. I made this to provide 4 minutes of escape from stress and worry about life, the universe and everything. I made this to ... Read more
February 13, 2025March 9, 2025 Comment
“Space, Man” – Penfriend

“Space, Man” – Penfriend

by Laura Kidd House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Releases Singles Space, Man
🎸 Get this song PLUS THREE more immediately when you order your copy of my new album “House Of Stories”, out 18th April 2025. The album is available on super limited edition ... Read more
February 13, 2025March 12, 2025 4 Comments
“Emotional Tourist” – Penfriend

“Emotional Tourist” – Penfriend

by Laura Kidd Emotional Tourist House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
🎸 Get this song PLUS THREE more immediately when you order your copy of my new album “House Of Stories”, out 18th April 2025. The album is available on super limited edition ... Read more
January 15, 2025March 12, 2025 Tagged: tourist Comment
On single release day, these two words have to go

On single release day, these two words have to go

by Laura Kidd Creativity House Of Stories Letterbox Music News Process
Day 8 of my daily index card collage challenge. “Gobblin’ Time” – get it? Original monster by Zozoville. Next Wednesday 15th January I’m releasing my first new song in two ... Read more
January 9, 2025March 9, 2025 Tagged: tourist
It’s “Our Last Christmas” (a fictional prequel to the Wham! classic)

It’s “Our Last Christmas” (a fictional prequel to the Wham! classic)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
🎁 Get your FREE copy of “Our Last Christmas” by Penfriend here or search for it wherever you listen to music online. 40 years after “Last Christmas” changed the festive ... Read more
December 24, 2024December 24, 2024 Tagged: christmas Comment
FREE live album – She Sings Sea Songs

FREE live album – She Sings Sea Songs

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Releases
“It’s so massive, and it humbles me…” Two days ago a member of my online gig audience asked why the sea has been a recurring theme in my music since ... Read more
May 3, 2024May 3, 2024
Four years of Penfriend!!!

Four years of Penfriend!!!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News
Four years ago TODAY I launched my Penfriend solo project after 10 years of releasing music under another name. People told me it would ruin my career, that starting a ... Read more
May 1, 2024May 1, 2024
Two listening parties this Tuesday!

Two listening parties this Tuesday!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Why not, eh? My second and third She Makes War albums have birthdays this week, so I’m celebrating with two listening parties on Bandcamp on Tuesday 9th April: 7.30pm – ... Read more
April 7, 2024April 7, 2024 Comment
FREE livestream – 3rd April

FREE livestream – 3rd April

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
The theme of April’s gig is “Direction Of Battles” – a celebration of the 12th and 8th birthdays of my second and third albums “Little Battles” and “Direction Of Travel”. ... Read more
April 2, 2024April 2, 2024 Comment
It’s happening… (Patreon launch news!)

It’s happening… (Patreon launch news!)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
You are welcome here. I’m Penfriend aka music producer and solo artist Laura Kidd. Half of Obey Robots, ex- She Makes War. I make heartfelt indie rock, synth pop and sad songs to ... Read more
March 30, 2024March 30, 2024 Comment
New FREE download for 9 days only…

New FREE download for 9 days only…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Photo taken by Laura Ward at The Apollo Project in Herne Hill, June 2009. In the spring of 2008 I was feeling Very Cheesed Off. “Making an album one day” ... Read more
March 2, 2024March 12, 2024 Comment
New Year, new live album gift for YOU

New Year, new live album gift for YOU

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News
I have a New Year’s gift for you: a hopeful 6-song live experience with bonus track and accompanying friendly gig chat. —> Get your copy of “Mending The Year” here – pay ... Read more
January 1, 2024January 1, 2024 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 014 – 19/12/23

Correspondent’s Club 014 – 19/12/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
To view this content, you must be a member of Laura's Patreon Unlock with Patreon ... Read more
December 19, 2023March 19, 2024 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 013 – 19/12/23

Correspondent’s Club 013 – 19/12/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The life of a new song, something to dance to, plus a 20-page zine Q&A with photos and studio recording notes. The only way to get access to future Correspondent’s ... Read more
December 19, 2023March 19, 2024 Comment
Weathering The Storm (FREE online gig next week)

Weathering The Storm (FREE online gig next week)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
What: Join me for a weather-themed mix of Penfriend/She Makes War songs, with at least one shiny new one (probably two)! When?: Wednesday 29th November 2023, 8pm GMT Where: Here ... Read more
November 21, 2023November 21, 2023 Comment
I said I would…

I said I would…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
During last month’s online gig I said I was going to play live more regularly – so I’m playing a completely different set of songs (including a BRAND new one ... Read more
October 20, 2023October 20, 2023 Comment
Remember the summer when everyone stayed at home?

Remember the summer when everyone stayed at home?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News
Remember the time I wrote a song about my own imagined death? Here’s “Black Car” from last week’s livestream. Today I released the whole gig as a live album, available ... Read more
October 6, 2023October 10, 2023 Comment
Live from Nottingham: online gig next Wednesday!

Live from Nottingham: online gig next Wednesday!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
It’s been a while…I moved city, painted some furniture bright pink and have been auditioning local Post Offices for the lofty honour of handling packages of music and merch for ... Read more
September 22, 2023September 22, 2023 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 012 – 5/9/23

Correspondent’s Club 012 – 5/9/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
One never-before-shared demo, some buried treasure plus a 24 page zine-letter with photos. The only way to get access to future Correspondent’s Club releases is to become a member – ... Read more
September 5, 2023September 5, 2023 Comment
FLASH SALE for Friday 13th…anniversary of “Disarm”!

FLASH SALE for Friday 13th…anniversary of “Disarm”!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
My debut album “Disarm” is 13 today, so I’m running a flash sale to celebrate! Get 25% off: + “Disarm” on CD+ “Disarm” on vinyl+ “Disarm” demos and rarities collection ... Read more
September 1, 2023September 1, 2023 Comment
I heart Bandcamp + last day of my BIG SALE

I heart Bandcamp + last day of my BIG SALE

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process
TL;DR: House Clearance Sale – last day to get up to 50% off music and merch! In 2009 I was living in a rented maisonette in South London where, for ... Read more
August 4, 2023August 4, 2023 Comment
Remember when Pledge Music stole our money?!

Remember when Pledge Music stole our money?!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
For this new article I was invited to share my thoughts on how artists can take control of their online presence, instead of leaving it all in the hands of ... Read more
July 17, 2023July 17, 2023 2 Comments
Storms don’t last forever…

Storms don’t last forever…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
My first Penfriend album “Exotic Monsters” just turned TWO YEARS OLD forcryingoutloud, so I’m celebrating with some vinyl bargains and limited edition rarities INCLUDING this never-before-publicly-shared reworking of three album tracks ... Read more
May 28, 2023May 28, 2023 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 011 – 16/5/23

Correspondent’s Club 011 – 16/5/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
Four brand new Penfriend demos, written as part of the recent Laura Veirs x School Of Song workshop series, plus a 24 page zine of thoughts, feelings and photos. The ... Read more
May 16, 2023May 16, 2023 Comment
Cat Cobain!!!

Cat Cobain!!!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News
I went to Rough Trade Nottingham in search of our Obey Robots album and found this instead! Art by Niaski. With hat tips to ace records by Sleaford Mods, Public ... Read more
March 22, 2023March 22, 2023 Tagged: obey robots 1 Comment
Charts Schmarts! But…

Charts Schmarts! But…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
It’s been a very exciting week here at Penfriend HQ! The headline: it’s the last day to cast your vote for independent music waving merrily at the mainstream, by picking up your ... Read more
March 2, 2023March 2, 2023 Comment
What’s happening in my life?!!

What’s happening in my life?!!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News
Wednesday 15th February. Rat’s monster riff is unmistakable – but I can’t understand how it’s coming out of the kitchen stereo. I walk back inside the house, my puppy Luna ... Read more
February 25, 2023February 25, 2023 Tagged: obey robots Comment
“Elephant” – Obey Robots

“Elephant” – Obey Robots

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
Taut and propulsive, “Elephant” marries the pop nouse of XTC with the stop-start dynamics of 00’s post-hardcore mainstays Hundred Reasons before opening up into the kind of shimmering chorus that ... Read more
February 17, 2023February 17, 2023 Tagged: obey robots Comment
Look what we made! Obey Robots unboxing video + Top 20 WTF?

Look what we made! Obey Robots unboxing video + Top 20 WTF?

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
It’s been an exciting few days in album release land. Packages of colourful merch have been arriving, books, CDs and guitar and bass picks have been signed with metallic Sharpie, and on Tuesday ... Read more
February 16, 2023February 20, 2023 Tagged: obey robots Comment
The story of the record the shops didn’t want.

The story of the record the shops didn’t want.

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
The story of the record the shops didn’t want. On Wednesday I received the news from my distributor that they only need 150 copies of my new album “One In ... Read more
February 11, 2023February 11, 2023 1 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 010 – 7/2/23

Correspondent’s Club 010 – 7/2/23

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
I found some treasure! My Zoom recorder died, and I nearly formatted the SD card before realising it *might* be pretty full of song ideas… It was, so I listened ... Read more
February 7, 2023March 23, 2023 Comment
This job is SO WEIRD!

This job is SO WEIRD!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
Some thoughts about how SUPER WEIRD my job is, how grateful I am to do it full-time, how BLOODY EXPENSIVE it is to make records, and what it’s really like ... Read more
February 2, 2023February 20, 2023 Tagged: obey robots Comment
I’d rather be one in a thousand

I’d rather be one in a thousand

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Are you trying to be one in a million? I grew up with that phrase knocking around in my brain, instructing me to try and be so brilliant, so very ... Read more
February 1, 2023February 2, 2023 Tagged: obey robots Comment
With 4 weeks to go…

With 4 weeks to go…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
It’s official: 2023 is the Year of the Robot. You heard it here first! My Obey Robots collaboration album “One In A Thousand” will be released into the world in four ... Read more
January 26, 2023January 26, 2023 Tagged: obey robots Comment
Why I shot a music video using Quicktime player and made it look like a Zoom call…

Why I shot a music video using Quicktime player and made it look like a Zoom call…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Releases Singles
Originally released in December 2020, “Let It Snow” wasn’t just the first Obey Robots single, it was the first song we completed (in December 2020!). It was a test: -> ... Read more
January 14, 2023February 1, 2023 1 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 009 – Winter 2022

Correspondent’s Club 009 – Winter 2022

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The ninth edition of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle, a members-only 9-song live performance. Track listing: 1. Dress rehearsal2. Olympian3. Devastate Me4. Dispensable Body5. Please Don’t6. I ... Read more
December 30, 2022March 23, 2023 Comment
A fresh direction for 2023

A fresh direction for 2023

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Music News
A snoozy day, punctuated by washing piles of soft furnishings and spraying the entire house with Indorex. Surprise baths for reluctant pooches. Flea and worming tablets doled out a few ... Read more
December 26, 2022January 14, 2023 3 Comments
Free music for you, to end 22

Free music for you, to end 22

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
As we approach the end of a particularly tough year, I’ve decided to collate all my free / pay what you want/can releases in one place, so you can fill ... Read more
December 15, 2022December 15, 2022 1 Comment
“Super Connected” – Obey Robots

“Super Connected” – Obey Robots

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
A song about the cognitive dissonance of feeling “super connected”: supposedly informed and part of a community via social media, yet deluded if we think typing words into a little ... Read more
December 6, 2022December 6, 2022 Comment
“And Peace” – (2019)

“And Peace” – (2019)

by Laura Kidd Albums Letterbox Music News Releases
When I decided to bring my She Makes War project to a close at the end of 2019, I created this eight-track retrospective featuring fan favourites from all four She ... Read more
November 25, 2022November 22, 2022 Comment
“Disarm:15” – (2015)

“Disarm:15” – (2015)

by Laura Kidd Albums Letterbox Music News Releases
I released my debut album “Disarm” under the name She Makes War in September 2010. I’d been collecting the songs together for a couple of years, gradually focusing my mind, ... Read more
November 18, 2022November 6, 2022 Comment
Is Twitter DEAD?! 108,142 tweets…now what?

Is Twitter DEAD?! 108,142 tweets…now what?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News
I joined Twitter on 23rd November 2007 and am looking at losing touch with nearly 15,000 followers if the platform crumbles under the leadership of Elon Musk, or if I ... Read more
November 9, 2022November 9, 2022 Comment
“Not The Quiet Type” – Obey Robots

“Not The Quiet Type” – Obey Robots

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
“Featuring the iconic guitar sound of Rat (Ned’s Atomic Dustbin) and the compassionate melodic arrangements of Laura Kidd (Penfriend / She Makes War), “Not The Quiet Type” implores the listener ... Read more
November 4, 2022November 3, 2022 Comment
Limited live album release + “Devastate Me”

Limited live album release + “Devastate Me”

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances Music News
I performed nine songs live on the internet on Wednesday 26th October 2022, and am making the studio quality recordings available for a short time only. The theme of the ... Read more
October 28, 2022October 28, 2022 Comment
“Brace For Impact” – (2018)

“Brace For Impact” – (2018)

by Laura Kidd Albums Letterbox Music News Releases
From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. “Brace For Impact” was the final full-length ... Read more
October 14, 2022October 13, 2022 Comment
FREE online gig 26/10/22 – “Sad songs to make you feel better”

FREE online gig 26/10/22 – “Sad songs to make you feel better”

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Live performances Music News
The theme for my next FREE online gig is “sad songs to make you feel better”. It’s all a lot at the moment, isn’t it?!! – and I’ve always found ... Read more
October 13, 2022October 13, 2022 Comment
Pre-order the Obey Robots album today!

Pre-order the Obey Robots album today!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News
The day is finally here! I’m delighted to invite you to browse the Obey Robots “One In A Thousand” pre-order extravaganza for limited edition coloured vinyl, CDs, cassettes, hardback books, guitar pick tins, ... Read more
October 4, 2022February 3, 2023 Comment
“Direction Of Travel” – (2016)

“Direction Of Travel” – (2016)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. My third album “Direction Of Travel” was ... Read more
September 16, 2022September 15, 2022 Comment
This is your invitation

This is your invitation

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Process
This is your invitation to directly support the creation of new music.To join a genuinely supportive online community, to receive thoughtful, lovingly made limited edition art and music bundles, to ... Read more
September 6, 2022September 6, 2022 Comment
Two new tees: typewriters and exotic monsters…

Two new tees: typewriters and exotic monsters…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
I’m very pleased to share two brand new Penfriend t-shirt designs, available now! These are extra special, because they were designed by my clever sister Julia. Hooray! Have a browse ... Read more
September 2, 2022September 30, 2022 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 008 – 24/8/22

Correspondent’s Club 008 – 24/8/22

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The eighth edition of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle was created in August 2022. I reworked three songs from “Exotic Monsters” for a collection provisionally titled “from ... Read more
August 24, 2022March 23, 2023 Comment
Experience “Exotic Monsters” Live!

Experience “Exotic Monsters” Live!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Let’s celebrate! It’s one year since my debut Penfriend album landed at #5 in the Independent Albums Chart and #24 in the Official UK Albums Chart, and got me a ... Read more
June 22, 2022June 22, 2022 Comment
It’s one year since THIS happened…

It’s one year since THIS happened…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
My first album under the name Penfriend (and my fifth solo album), “Exotic Monsters” marked the start of a new musical chapter. Written, produced and recorded in my home studio ... Read more
May 28, 2022May 27, 2022 Comment
“Black Car” on Welcome To Night Vale!

“Black Car” on Welcome To Night Vale!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
I’m somewhat stunned and very excited to announce my song “Black Car” is The Weather on episode 208 of the Welcome To Night Vale podcast, “Cecil in The Big City”. ... Read more
May 15, 2022May 15, 2022 Comment
Watch my latest livestream whenever you like!

Watch my latest livestream whenever you like!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News News
Last Wednesday I invited friendly music lovers into the new Launchpad to celebrate the 10th birthday of my second album “Little Battles”. Hooray! Watch whenever you like: Set list: MinefieldsExit ... Read more
May 3, 2022May 3, 2022 Comment
I’m singing on Miles Hunt’s new song “Things Can Change”

I’m singing on Miles Hunt’s new song “Things Can Change”

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process
+ Listen to ”Things Can Change” here on Bandcamp. + Watch the “Things Can Change” video here. In January 2022, one of my musical heroes invited me to contribute vocals ... Read more
April 30, 2022May 3, 2022 2 Comments
Correspondent’s Club 007 – 25/4/22

Correspondent’s Club 007 – 25/4/22

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The seventh edition of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle was created in March 2022. The only way to get access to future Correspondent’s Club releases is to ... Read more
April 25, 2022March 23, 2023 Comment
Ukulele or cavaquinho? Adventures in Portugal

Ukulele or cavaquinho? Adventures in Portugal

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity
I started playing the ukulele in 2008 after reading about George Harrison’s great love for the instrument, and have written many sad songs on it since. On a recent trip ... Read more
April 24, 2022April 25, 2022 Comment
“Little Battles” – (2012)

“Little Battles” – (2012)

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. “Little Battles” is available on vinyl for ... Read more
April 17, 2022September 15, 2022 Comment
“Paper Thin” – live one take performance

“Paper Thin” – live one take performance

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity
On 23rd February 2022 I played an atmospheric acoustic online gig on my Luna Dolphin ukulele and Boss RC30 loop pedal. This song was released on my third album under ... Read more
April 9, 2022March 31, 2022 Comment
Reading this could have made me give up on my music career…

Reading this could have made me give up on my music career…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity
If you battle your inner critic on a regular basis – this one’s for you. I received a standout email recently from a subscriber, and it was surprisingly freeing! Receive ... Read more
April 2, 2022April 19, 2022 2 Comments
“Disarm” – my 2010 debut album

“Disarm” – my 2010 debut album

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
From 2009-2019 I made music under the name She Makes War, releasing 4 and a bit solo albums and playing nearly 600 shows. My debut album “Disarm” was recorded and ... Read more
March 26, 2022September 15, 2022 Comment
Can I be honest with you?

Can I be honest with you?

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity
I was delighted to be invited onto one of my favourite podcasts recently – The James McMahon Music Podcast. It was nerve-wracking being on the other side of questions for ... Read more
March 19, 2022March 22, 2022 Comment
Why I’m leaving The Launchpad

Why I’m leaving The Launchpad

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process Productivity
Hands up if you find working from home with your loved ones a *little bit* tough! Two full years of sharing a wall with my darling husband has come to ... Read more
March 12, 2022March 11, 2022 Comment
Vocal loops and ukulele mini gig for you!

Vocal loops and ukulele mini gig for you!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
On 23rd February 2022 I played an atmospheric acoustic online gig on my Luna Dolphin ukulele and Boss RC30 loop pedal. I’ve chosen three songs to share in this mini ... Read more
March 5, 2022March 5, 2022 2 Comments
“Little Battles” + “Disarm” reissues + first-time on vinyl!

“Little Battles” + “Disarm” reissues + first-time on vinyl!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
It’s astonishing to me that this April 9th marks the tenth anniversary of the release of my second album “Little Battles”. It is, however, true – so I’m celebrating with some beautiful ... Read more
February 27, 2022February 27, 2022 1 Comment
FREE online gig Wed 23rd Feb

FREE online gig Wed 23rd Feb

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
She Makes War to Penfriend: join me for a deep dive into my back catalogue beaming live from my home studio The Launchpad into your home (or wherever you happen ... Read more
February 22, 2022February 22, 2022 2 Comments
Correspondent’s Club 005 + 006 – 21/12/21

Correspondent’s Club 005 + 006 – 21/12/21

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The fifth and sixth editions of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle were released together in December 2021, comprising two zines and one CD. The only way to ... Read more
December 21, 2021March 23, 2023 Comment
Online Gig 15/12/21 – watch / download

Online Gig 15/12/21 – watch / download

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
I played my first gig in a very long time on 15th December 2021, and it’s available for you to enjoy on YouTube whenever you like! I performed songs from ... Read more
December 16, 2021December 18, 2021 Comment
EU VAT woes? Bandcamp musicians, you’re (probably) doing it wrong…

EU VAT woes? Bandcamp musicians, you’re (probably) doing it wrong…

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
…but it’s not your fault, and I’m here to help. TAX DOESN’T HAVE TO BE TAXING (apparently…)! [Last edited 15/10/21 after input from kind tweeters – I feel this may ... Read more
October 14, 2021October 15, 2021 43 Comments
Correspondent’s Club 004 – 4/8/21

Correspondent’s Club 004 – 4/8/21

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The fourth edition of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle, created in July 2021. An exclusive “Exotic Monsters” album commentary, made just for you x The only way ... Read more
August 4, 2021March 23, 2023 Comment
“Why I’m still not playing gigs in 2021” [VIDEO]

“Why I’m still not playing gigs in 2021” [VIDEO]

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
As an independent songwriter, producer and musician, releasing my new album this year was more of a challenge than usual. The UK government left venues with no choice but to ... Read more
July 20, 2021July 21, 2021 Comment
I’ll Start A Fire (18/5/21)

I’ll Start A Fire (18/5/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
I'll Start A Fire (single) by Penfriend Release date: 18th May 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get ... Read more
May 18, 2021May 18, 2021 2 Comments
Music Week says my new album is “essential”

Music Week says my new album is “essential”

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Imagine this indie upstart’s surprise and delight on the weekend when a friend sent me this photo*. Yes, that’s my artist name sitting pretty right near Billie Eilish’s face, with ... Read more
May 17, 2021May 18, 2021 1 Comment
Never fear, I’m still punk as fuck

Never fear, I’m still punk as fuck

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
All this talk of the album charts recently might have made you think I’m selling out. I’ve spent my music career as the underdog with a punk spirit, sneered at ... Read more
May 5, 2021May 5, 2021 1 Comment
Can we make Bristol music history together?!

Can we make Bristol music history together?!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
This is unbelievable! I have massive news to share with you today: my new album “Exotic Monsters” is two thirds of the way towards getting in the UK Top 40 ... Read more
April 30, 2021May 5, 2021 1 Comment
Seventeen (23/4/21)

Seventeen (23/4/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
Seventeen (single) by Penfriend Release date: 23rd April 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get three album tracks ... Read more
April 23, 2021May 18, 2021 2 Comments
Correspondent’s Club 003 – 21/4/21

Correspondent’s Club 003 – 21/4/21

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The third edition of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle, created in March 2021.  The only way to get access to future Correspondent’s Club releases is to become ... Read more
April 21, 2021March 23, 2023 Comment
Halfway to the UK Top 40!

Halfway to the UK Top 40!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
Share this: ... Read more
March 31, 2021April 1, 2021 Comment
Black Car (“Exotic Monsters”)

Black Car (“Exotic Monsters”)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
To my great delight and excitement, this song is featured as “The Weather” on “Cecil in The Big City”, Episode 208 of the Welcome To Night Vale podcast, 15th May ... Read more
March 26, 2021May 15, 2022 3 Comments
New Penfriend live album – available for one week only!

New Penfriend live album – available for one week only!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Last Friday’s Correspondent’s Club livestream turned out so nicely I’m sharing the posh recordings with you for one week only! I played seven songs and had a nice chat with ... Read more
March 5, 2021 Comment
Cancel Your Hopes (5/3/21)

Cancel Your Hopes (5/3/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
Cancel Your Hopes (single) by Penfriend Release date: 5th March 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get “Cancel ... Read more
March 5, 2021March 27, 2021
Why I won’t be playing in-person gigs in 2021

Why I won’t be playing in-person gigs in 2021

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Mindfulness Music News Process
For everyone who’s been asking me whether I’m going to be touring in 2021 – here are my thoughts on the matter. We’re all missing live concerts, artists are floundering ... Read more
March 1, 2021March 1, 2021 4 Comments
My song is in a film!

My song is in a film!

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Music News Process
Most songwriters dream of one day having their song in a film soundtrack, and I’m fizzing with delight that “Dear Heart” appears in 21st century rom-com Modern Persuasion, directed by Alex ... Read more
February 14, 2021February 16, 2021 Comment
Power to the people

Power to the people

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Process
At the end of last week, I was invited to write a piece sharing an artist’s perspective on a harsh new scheme to charge musicians to perform their own work ... Read more
February 1, 2021February 2, 2021 2 Comments
Exotic Monsters (22/1/21)

Exotic Monsters (22/1/21)

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Releases Singles
Exotic Monsters (single) by Penfriend Release date: 22nd January 2021Label: My Big Sister Recordings GET THE SONG + Click to download pay what you want/can from Bandcamp.+ Get “Exotic Monsters” ... Read more
January 22, 2021March 27, 2021 1 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 002 – 15/12/20

Correspondent’s Club 002 – 15/12/20

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The second edition of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle, created in Oct/Nov 2020. The only way to get access to future Correspondent’s Club releases is to become ... Read more
December 15, 2020March 23, 2023 Comment
Correspondent’s Club 001 – 21/8/20

Correspondent’s Club 001 – 21/8/20

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News Perks TCC
The first edition of The Correspondent’s Club quarterly music and zine bundle, created in July 2020. The only way to get access to future Correspondent’s Club releases is to become ... Read more
August 21, 2020March 23, 2023 Comment
New Penfriend TV live album – available for one week only!

New Penfriend TV live album – available for one week only!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Surprise PWYW live album for youuuuuuuuuu! On Friday 31st July I played my third Correspondent’s Club livestream, including a brand new song called “Seventeen”, and I am making some live ... Read more
August 2, 2020January 14, 2021 Comment
Surprise live album – available for one week only!

Surprise live album – available for one week only!

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
Surprise live album for youuuuuuuuuu! Get your hands on 8 songs (7 unreleased) plus some fun chat, available on a pay what you want basis* for one week only. Penfriend ... Read more
June 26, 2020January 14, 2021 5 Comments
Beware Of Darkness, online gig this Sat + why I’m launching a podcast

Beware Of Darkness, online gig this Sat + why I’m launching a podcast

by Laura Kidd Creativity Letterbox Mindfulness Music News Podcast Process
Art by @grandfunkrev This morning I got up early to do yoga in the living room before walking the dogs round the block in the blazing sunshine. On returning home ... Read more
May 28, 2020February 27, 2021 17 Comments
My lockdown anthem of hope is out today

My lockdown anthem of hope is out today

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
GET THE SONG + Get “Everything Looks Normal In The Sunshine” plus unreleased track “The Only Way Out Is Through” FREE when you join The Correspondent’s Club.+ Download PWYW from ... Read more
May 15, 2020January 14, 2021 7 Comments
Four Penfriend songs live on the internet – watch again links

Four Penfriend songs live on the internet – watch again links

by Laura Kidd Letterbox Music News
25/3/20 – Stay At Home Fest with Robin Ince, Josie Long, Jo Brand and Luke WrightStarts 44:39 – I played “Out Of The Blue” + “Everything Looks Normal In The ... Read more
May 8, 2020January 14, 2021 1 Comment
Let me tell you a story…

Let me tell you a story…

by Laura Kidd Creativity Homepage Feature Letterbox Music News Process
When I was a little girl, one of my favourite possessions was a shoebox that I filled up with bits of paper, envelopes and leaflets gathered from wherever I could ... Read more
May 1, 2020January 15, 2021 36 Comments
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