Lee Martin Announces 'Gypsy Soul' Album Release Tour + Unveils Single / Video 'What If I Die'

Born in South Africa and now resident in Ōtautahi Christchurch, songwriter Lee Martin has unfurled the lead single from forthcoming new album Gypsy Soul, plus details of a five date tour treating South Island gig-goers to songs from the record in March and April 2022. Primarily recorded in Aotearoa with TeMatera Smith and Chris Ward (Chris and the Kingsmen), gospel backing vocals for Gypsy Soul were laid down at Johannesburg's Jazzworx studios. Launched today along with a sun-soaked road trip video, in advance of the long player's release on 25th February, Martin explained how 'What If I Die' took shape...

"I played a gig one night at a corporate event and was seated next to a man that I got talking to. He ended up telling me that his biggest regret was never taking his wife to Paris when that was her one dream. They always had excuses, kids, house, finances, the usual. When they finally were able to go, she became terminally ill, and they never got to go before she died. This story really touched me, and I realized how important it is to do the things you want to do and not postpone your life. Things can change so quickly, and opportunities can be missed. I’ve always wanted to see the painting by Van Gogh, Starry Night, in real life and it has also always been my dream to go to the Greek Islands. So of course, I decided to delay no longer and make it happen. I booked my tickets for New York and Greece which were both in 2020. Of course, then Covid hit and neither dream came true. This song is about bucket lists and the things we want to do. “What if I die, without ever seeing Starry night”. “Starry night” is the metaphor for whatever your bucket list might be.” - Lee Martin

Lee Martin Gypsy Soul Album Release Tour

Wednesday 9th March - The Piano, Christchurch*
Saturday 26th March - Marchfest, Nelson
Sunday 27th March - house concert, Blenheim
Saturday 2nd April - Hector Black's, Timaru*
Friday 8th April - The Gatherer, Hokitika*
Saturday 9th April - Barrytown Hall, Barrytown*

*Tickets available HERE via UTR

Press release:

Lee Martin and her band will be touring the country in celebration of the release of her new album ‘Gypsy Soul’. Renowned for her unforgettable, beguiling performances and her connection with audiences, this will be a tour not to be missed.

Her upcoming album is an incredibly personal work, that takes you through a journey of highs and lows. Additional Backing vocals recorded and arranged in South Africa add layers of stunning texture which grounds the album in Lee's African heritage whilst still paying homage to Southern US Layered harmonies in a Soul and even gospel style.