Khashoggi is an alternative folk duo based in London, formed by songwriters Jessica Craig (vocals) and Michael Webster (guitars) during the summer of 2017.
With influences from a plethora of artists such as Father John Misty, Weyes Blood, Lana del Rey, The Beatles, Blur and Elvis Costello; as well as classic blues and jazz artists; they produce a sound which has been described as edgy and soulful but hard to pin down to a single genre.
Khashoggi recorded their debut album in three very hot days in 2018 at Orchard Studios in Crewe, which allowed them to expand their originally raw sound to include electric guitars, drums and synthesizer. The album, entitled 'Run on Repeat' takes its name from a lyric in the song 'Losing it All', one of the most experimental songs on the album. 'Run on Repeat' was released on 8th November 2019. One of the album tracks 'Getting Better' has received play on various radio stations, including as part of BBC Introducing.
Khashoggi have played all across London since forming, (check out their 'Previous Gigs' button on the 'Live' page) in a number of venues. Khashoggi have also played in Italy, performing at Castaldi Festival near the Dolomite mountains in 2018. There, they met young film director Nicolet Nguyen who decided to produce a documentary following Khashoggi's journey. This was released on 13 May 2018 to a very positive reception.
The name 'Khashoggi' was selected by Jess and Michael at a pie shop near King's Cross, after one of their first writing sessions. The pair are big fans of Queen and it is taken from a track on 'The Miracle' album called 'Khashoggi's Ship'. They found it was a memorable and interesting word which had meaning obvious only to them and other fans of Queen. This name did lead to some unexpected attention following the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, resulting in hits on their website from all over the world and even an interview on a radio station in Dallas, Texas.
Since the Covid pandemic began, Khashoggi has expanded their sound to include drums and bass guitar and have performed some virtual gigs, raising money for the charity War Child.
Keep up to date with their latest gigs on the 'Live' page.
'...fabulous eclectic chops!'
Bugbear Promotions
'It's not easy to turn a guitar and a voice into a compelling musical performance but listening to Khashoggi, you can hear the thought they've put into crafting not just songs but a sound that breathes life into those songs.'
Douglas Cowie