Arthur Watson was introduced to folk music at a young age, inspired by hostel stays and encounters with artists like Dave Goulder. His passion grew through summer jobs and school folk clubs, where he met mentor Peter Hall.
In Aberdeen, he immersed himself in traveller songs and ballads, influenced by Ewan MacColl, Peggy Seeger, and the New Lost City Ramblers. Joining The Gaugers, he helped bring North East folk songsto wider audiences through performances and recordings.
Collaborating with Peter Hall, he contributed to 21 Edinburgh International Festival events celebrating the Greig Duncan Collection. After Peter’s passing, Arthur continued the tradition with Tom Spiers and Pete Shepheard, broadening their musical reach.
Beyond music, he integrates song and culture into his visual art, with exhibitions in Aberdeen, Chicago, and Nagoya. For over a decade, Portsoy’s festivals have provided a platform for his performances, both solo and in collaboration with Danny Couper, Tom, and Pete.
