Peggy’s Spotlight feat Ellen Beth Abdi, Safii Koi & Franziska Meszar

Sunday 19th April

• Doors at 6:15 pm
• Performance from 7pm
• Two sets of music with an interval, food purchased separately
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Peggy’s Spotlight

“The event’s mission is to shine a light on homegrown talent giving them a chance to shine on a stage that feels like home…” – Iulia Teodora Matei, Leftlion 

We’re back for another Spotlight event, welcoming early career musicians to the stage! This month we’re excited to welcome Ellen Beth Abdi a wonky, soul-infused pop music-maker, Safii Koi, exploring soulful jazz fusion and Franziska Meszar a singer/songwriter and instrumentalist.

Ellen Beth Abdi

Mancunian music-maker Ellen Beth Abdi uses live loops, pokey drums, undulating synths and quietly subversive lyrics to mould her unique sound.

Ellen’s enchanting and distinctive sound has gained her spots at Manchester International Festival, and support slots for Olivia Dean, Hollie Cooke, Ishmael Ensemble, Oscar Jerome and Allysha Joy. She was invited to collaborate live with music legend Angélique Kidjo, opening Aviva Studios for Manchester International Festival 2023.

Having been taken under the wing of the old guard of Manchester, while being very much representing the new school: Ellen has had a unique mentorship allowing her to learn from the best. The synergy between past and present allowing her to develop a well-rounded, nuanced skill set and an innate appreciation for the city’s rich cultural heritage. Of which she is an integral part.

Her debut solo album was released on 23rd May 2025 on her own label Sweet Twenty-Three records via Republic of Music.

This gig has been supported by Jazz North’s Northern Line programme.

Line up
Ellen Beth Abdi – vocals, loops and electronics

Links
Instagram

Safii Koii

Introducing Safii Koii, a Singer and Music Producer with roots deeply embedded in the vibrant culture of North London. With an unwavering commitment to authenticity and empathy, Safii infuses her music with a diverse array of influences, drawing inspiration from eclectic artists like FKA twigs, Gorillaz, Toro y Moi, James Blake, and many others.

Driven by a genuine desire to connect with her audience, Safii Koii pours her heart and soul into every song, crafting melodies that resonate with honesty, warmth, and compassion. Through her music, she creates a safe haven where listeners can find solace, understanding, and a sense of belonging amidst life’s chaotic journey.

Line up
Drums – Eddie
Guitar – Archie
Bass – David
Vocals – Safii Koii

Instagram

Franziska Meszar

Franziska Meszar is a singer/songwriter and instrumentalist, based in Nottingham. With her soft vocals, her honest lyricism, and her gentle guitar accompaniment, she creates an intimate atmosphere, that absorbs you into her world.

The singer grew up in Germany, as part of a family of classical musicians. She received her musical education from the age of 7, learning the piano and flute. Later, she added the guitar and singing to her musical repertoire. In adulthood, she has found a home in her own musical compositions.

As a singer/songwriter, her sound is inspired by Jazz, Soul, Neo Soul and Folk. Among her biggest influences are Nina Simone, Ella Fitzgerald, Eloise and Laufey. She’s currently working on recording and producing her debut releases.

Franziska writes of love, loss, and introspection. Her storytelling is truthful, direct, and deeply relatable, giving permission to the human experience.