EVERYDAY you see them singing, dancing and playing instruments but how well do you know these performers?
Southampton has an ecletic group of buskers keeping shoppers entertained seven days a week.
On a sunny day, their music creates an uplifting atmosphere, enjoyed by hundreds of passers-by who often stop to listen and leave a donation.
David Ellui Robinson is among the musicians who have made Above Bar Street their home – or better, their stage.
Originally from Toronto, Canada, the 53-year-old can often be seen performing on his guitar outside of West Quay.
David has been busking for years, managing all his tech through an app on his iPad.
His distinctive Canadian accent sets him apart.
“I’ve played music for a long time,” he said.
“Busking for me is paid rehearsal. I do the same rehearsal at home, but I can come out here, be a bit less serious about the rehearsing, put on a show, get paid for it.
“It can even lead to gigs hopefully.”
Katrina Tomsett, 20, is from Reading. She busks all along the south coast, despite being new to the scene.
She said: “I started in summer 2020, so [it's been] only a couple years. I busk in places down south - Reading, Winchester, Southampton and Oxford.
“Most of the time I’m a singer/songwriter, so I’m working on my own music, and I do a few pub gigs here and there.
“[Busking] is kind of just something to do in the day.”
The would-be full-time artist says busking has helped her both personally and professionally.
“Busking has really helped me and my music career.
“I’ve met a lot of people through it, I met my publisher through it.
“It’s made me more confident as well as a person, it’s brought me out my shell a bit – it forces you to!”
Emile Hallett, also 20, can often be found outside of West Quay.
“I busk because I feel like it is the best way to get my music out there, to get my voice out there.
“It’s just something I love doing and I thought if I can make money doing what I love, why not?”
What do you think of Southampton's busking scene? Let us know in the comments.
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