To quote BBC6Music's Tom Robinson Toby Corton is a 'charismatic queer cockney creative' currently based in East London. His music has been described by Earmilk as “British soul, held together by a modern indie pop overtone” and it is looking as though it could be an exciting year for his music. Toby has been making music since 2017 and his love of the creative process has led him to taking photos of the likes of already legendary Drag Queen Bimini and London Trans Pride Founder Lucia Blayke. A refreshing mix of retro and modern influences, Toby describes his sound as “a modern British take on neo-soul built on a foundation of frank queer storytelling."

 

Toby’s previous supporters include the likes of Dazed, COLORS, NOTION, Clash Magazine, Earmilk and GX Magazine, as well as BBC 6Music’s Tom Robinson, BBC Introducing London and Essex. The talented singer-songwriter has developed from acoustic performances to now working with a full live band, playing to sold out audiences for headline shows at Servant Jazz Quarters, The Windmill (Brixton) and  The Roundhouse, for Roundhouse Rising Present as part the music group, StateIsFlow. He's also played on the mainstage of both Birmingham and London Pride.

 

Toby Corton is also a founding member of Sounds Queer; an innovative live music showcase spanning genre, expression and identity. The events champion diverse voices and sounds from the LGBTQIA+ community, whilst providing a safe space for audiences within it. Their first sold out event took place at Paper Dress Vintage and the team has also partnered with Sofar Sounds London to bring intimate offerings of divinely Queer music in a relaxed and up-close setting. In addition to this, they are holding important conversations and encouraging community through queerness in music, with their work with the likes of Wild Paths Festival, hosting panel discussions.

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"Toby is an exceptional artist who cares about every part of his craft, whether that's songwriting, the aesthetic of his projects or the deeper meaning conveyed in the music. We've played countless records carefully made by Toby on our BBC Music Introducing In Essex show, competing with hundreds of amazing artists in the county; a rich and spellbinding tone that is real quality and vocal to find. It should also be noted his work with the Sounds Queer project is inspirational and groundbreaking, providing a safe space in the industry for queer artists to perform as their true selves. There aren't many other creatives I'm aware of making music but also having this impact in the queer space, carving a new space in an industry that is often overlooked" - Jake Peach - BBC Essex, 6 Music and Introducing