Norfolk-Born Singer Set To Perform On Chris Evans’ Radio Show
A former King’s Lynn and Taverham schoolgirl turned military musician will continue her remarkable journey when she sings to eight million people on national radio next week.
Ellie Red, who attended Whitefriars Primary School, will be performing her charity single Feels Like Home on Chris Evans’ BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show on Friday, November 8.
Now 28 years old, Ms Red has gone far from her Norfolk beginnings travelling the world as part of the Royal Marines Band, which she joined 10 years ago.
Ms Red said: “I’ve always loved singing and people have always been really kind about it.
“I’m just so honoured that I have been picked up. It is all absolutely luck and the kindness of other people. You can have all the talent in the world and still not get anywhere, so I have been very lucky.
“Feels Like Home really fits in well with the military theme as there are lots of people away from home in places like Afghanistan and Iraq.
“Hopefully after this I’ll make an album and if that goes well, we’ll have to see.”
The singer, still a full-time Royal Marine, recognises how fortunate she has been having been awarded a music scholarship at Taverham Hall School when she was just eight.
Later, she was spotted singing at a charity dinner by broadcaster Sir Michael Parkinson.
Sir Michael was so impressed with Ms Red’s performance that he gave her a helping hand by paying for her to record five tracks.
Ms Red has also received support from the marines and, despite her success, still sees her future there.
She said: “The Royal Marines Band have been very supportive, under the leadership of principal director of music Nick Grace.
“I want to stay in the Royal Marines for the foreseeable future. I love it and they are 100% supportive.
“I always wanted a career in music and that’s what I am doing with the Royal Marines.”
Feels Like Home will be raising funds for the Royal Marines Charitable Trust Fund and a Berkshire children’s hospice.
The single will be available on iTunes from November 8.