Richard Walters Releases “Songs from the Solent” To Celebrate Local Communities and Coastal Habitats

Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Richard Walters has released a new EP, Songs from the Solent, inspired by the Solent’s communities, wildlife, and threatened coastal habitats.

Created during Richard’s residency with the Solent Seascape Project, the eight-track album celebrates the area’s saltmarshes, seagrass meadows, oyster reefs, and seabird sites, while raising awareness and support for their restoration.

Proceeds from the album will go towards protecting and restoring these vital habitats, which lock away carbon, safeguard shorelines, and support marine life.

“I hope these songs shine a light on parts of the coastline it’s easy to overlook,” Richard said. “I want to inspire people to explore the Solent and care for its seascapes.”

The album features local talent alongside internationally acclaimed contributors, including Oscar-winning actor Jeremy Irons, who lends his voice to Lanterns Part 1.

Isle of Wight artist Trudie Wilson contributes to Wight Paint, and the Big Notes Choir from Chichester appear on Salt Forests.

Renowned linocut artist Angela Harding has created a bespoke map of the Solent, highlighting the locations that inspired each track.

Richard drew inspiration from local communities and seascapes, meeting sea swimmers at Hayling Island and capturing field recordings from coastal habitats.

His work aims to build an emotional connection between people and the Solent while supporting vital conservation work.

Louise MacCallum, Solent Project Manager, said:

“These songs give a wonderful artistic lens to the beautiful seascapes we are working to restore.

"Music is a powerful way to share our work and inspire new supporters.”

Songs from the Solent is available to stream and download on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, and Bandcamp.

A live performance will take place at the Square Tower in Portsmouth on 11 February, with free tickets available from Friday, 16 January.

For more information on the Solent Seascape Project and the album, visit www.solentseascape.com.