Glasgow’s vibrant music scene has long been a breeding ground for emerging talent, and few stories capture this spirit better than that of Rianne Downey. Before gracing the stages of major festivals, Downey honed her craft busking on the bustling streets of Glasgow, an experience she describes as her true apprenticeship in music.
For Downey, busking was more than just performing; it was a rigorous training ground that shaped her into the artist she is today. “Busking was my apprenticeship,” she reflects. “It taught me how to build character, develop a thick skin, and connect with a diverse range of people.” Performing in public spaces, often to unpredictable crowds, forced her to learn quickly how to engage listeners and hold their attention—a skill that has served her well as she transitioned to larger venues.
Her years on the streets came before Glasgow City Council introduced a formal code for street performers, which aimed to regulate busking and ensure fairness among artists. Downey notes that even before these rules, there was an unspoken etiquette among buskers, a mutual respect that allowed everyone a chance to be heard. “There was always a code, an understanding,” she says. “Everyone wanted to share the space fairly.”
This grassroots beginning laid the foundation for Downey’s growing success. Her journey from street corners to the TRNSMT festival stage is a testament to her dedication and resilience. TRNSMT, one of Scotland’s premier music festivals, will feature Downey performing on the King Tut’s stage—a significant milestone in her burgeoning career. Alongside this, she is preparing for a headline tour that will culminate in a major show in Glasgow later this year.
Despite her rising profile, Downey remains grounded and candid about the challenges of the music industry. She openly discusses the impact of negative comments and criticism, which are inevitable for any public figure. “You have to develop a thick skin,” she says. “Not everyone will like what you do, and that’s okay. It’s about staying true to yourself and your music.”
Songwriting, for Downey, is not just a creative outlet but also a form of therapy. It allows her to process emotions and experiences, transforming personal stories into songs that resonate with her audience. This authenticity shines through in her performances, endearing her to fans and critics alike.
Rianne Downey’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of grassroots music culture and the opportunities it creates for emerging artists. From the streets of Glasgow to the stages of major festivals, her journey embodies the spirit of perseverance and passion that defines the city’s music scene.
As she prepares to take the TRNSMT stage and embark on her headline tour, Downey stands as an inspiring example for aspiring musicians everywhere—proof that with talent, hard work, and a little courage, the path from busking to stardom is within reach.
