A BOUT of pneumonia at just three years old transformed the voice of South Gloucestershire singer songwriter Elles Bailey forever.
An ear, nose and throat specialist at the time confirmed that the Horton-based toddler had experienced no permanent damage. 
He also observed: “If she ever wants to sing, she’ll be a natural blues vocalist.” He was right. 
From her earliest performances in musicals at Tockington Manor School, right up to the release of her debut album -Wildfire - this month, Elles’ voice has a raw energy that sets her apart.
Although she usually writes and records at her home studio in Horton, Wildfire was created further afield, in America’s home of country music, Nashville.
Elles managed to get a slot in the legendary Blackbird Studios, where everyone from the White Stripes to the Kings of Leon to Rush has recorded. There, she pulled together an impressive group of musicians to feature on the recording.
“It was an amazing experience. I got the opportunity to work with Elvis’ pianist Bobby Wood and Stevie Wonder’s drummer, Wes Little.
“Now I’m really excited about sharing this record with the world.”
Wildfire is available now from all major digital outlets, and on CD and vinyl via ellesbailey.com

The Elles Bailey album launch party is set to take place at Christchurch, on Clifton Down Road, Bristol on October 7, at 7.30pm.

Tickets are available in advance at £9 and on the door at £10.

There will be an honesty bar with all profits going to charity.