How to Build a Lasting Career as a Cover Artist in Dorset

With over a decade of experience in music and nearly two years as a full-time performer, Charlie Greenwood has built a name for herself in Dorset’s vibrant live music circuit. From wedding receptions to bustling venues, her ability to captivate an audience with well-loved cover songs has made her a sought-after act across the county.

A Setlist That Keeps the Crowd Singing

While Charlie has written some original music, her performances primarily feature covers—something that resonates strongly with her audiences. “I do mostly cover songs because I perform at weddings, events, and venues where people want to hear the songs they know and love,” she explains. “I do have a couple of original tracks, but they don’t make an appearance too often.”

The Challenges and Opportunities in Dorset’s Music Scene

As someone deeply embedded in the local music industry, Charlie has seen first-hand the changing landscape of live entertainment.

“It’s a tricky climate right now,” she admits. “Hospitality and entertainment are facing similar challenges with rising costs, and a lot of venues are having to scale back their budgets or entertainment schedules. But despite that, there’s still such a strong desire for live music—nothing can replace the energy of a live performance.”

While the larger cities often dominate the music scene, Charlie sees Dorset as a place of opportunity for those willing to put in the effort. “You do have to be proactive,” she says. “I make a habit of stopping by venues that look like they might suit my music and just having a chat. You can’t wait for opportunities to come to you—you have to go out and make them happen.”

Building Relationships and Keeping the Diary Full

Charlie’s hard work is paying off. Last year alone, she played an incredible 165 gigs. “It’s tough to pick a favourite venue because I’ve worked with so many lovely places,” she says. “I really focus on building strong relationships with venues and working with them regularly. That’s the best way to keep a steady stream of gigs coming in.”

With a strong mix of independent outreach and agency support, Charlie has created a sustainable career doing what she loves. “I do the bulk of the legwork myself, but I also work with some fantastic agencies who help fill in the gaps. It’s a good balance.”

Looking Ahead: A Busy Year of Gigs and New Themes

As 2025 unfolds, Charlie is deep in planning mode, booking in gigs and preparing for an eclectic mix of performances.

“I like to keep things fresh, so I’m always introducing new themes and ideas. A lot of my inspiration comes from client requests—someone will ask for something different, and I’ll develop it into something I can offer more widely.”

From weddings and private parties to restaurant gigs and themed events, Charlie is set for another packed year of performances across Dorset and beyond.

Where to Find Charlie Greenwood

For those keen to catch one of her performances, the best place to find Charlie is via her website: charliegreenwoodsings.com. “If you Google me, I’ll pop up everywhere,” she laughs. “I made sure of that when I started out!”

She’s also active on various musician platforms such as Encore and Last Minute Musicians, which help keep her diary full.

With a dedication to her craft and an unshakable work ethic, Charlie Greenwood is proving that with passion and perseverance, it’s possible to build a thriving career in live music—even in the unpredictable landscape of today’s entertainment industry.

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