Soul Trader® was formed in 2004 by Australian songwriter & performer Simon James Betts™, after some time as a solo musician.

Simon James Betts™ always wanted to be a magician but his parents misheard what he said, bought him a guitar and the rest is history. Simon’s songs have been compared to such artists including Crowded House, James Blunt, David Gray, Bryan Adams & The Eagles (to name a few). His songs have an individuality & catchiness that leaves you wanting more.

Credits:

• 2 Solo Albums.
• International touring.
• Performing in front of 10,000 people at the Dunbrody Festival (Ireland).
• Performing along side:
• Leading Irish acts Mary Black, The Wolftones & Aslan.
• Chris Baron (Spin Doctors - USA).
• The Waifs (Australia).
• 2004 finalist in the AWASAM Award for Excellence as Male Solo Artist.

The music of Simon James Betts has been embraced around the world by audiences and industry alike. One Irish radio interview kicked off with the line, “We are looking at the future tonight & the future is Simon James Betts!”, a second Irish DJ needed just 2 words “F**kin’ Class” (I think that was off air).

For 2005-6 Simon was joined by Corey Stewart, a multi-instrumentalist and singer, who has toured all over Australia in many different bands as a player and musical director. He has also appeared on many recordings including Heather Frahn & Steve Lennox and played supports for Fruit, Skunkhour, Renee Geyer, Pete Murray & Tim Finn.

In 2005 - 2006 much was achieved including the release of “Pre-cursor”.

“Pre-cursor” heralds the birth of Soul Trader “The audience however is what makes us live” – Simon James Betts.

Soul Trader has also performed at numerous venues and event included the 2006 Adelaide Cabaret Festival. 2006 saw Soul Trader’s “Pre-cursor” picked up by 50+ radio stations and the band interviewed a number of times.

Although the Betts/Stewart partnership was, from both a writing and performing perspective exceptional, Corey leaves the Soul Trader® camp at the end of 2006 to pursue a job as a cover band musician.

Soul Trader® captures imaginations and has begun to pave a new road for others to follow.

What will 2007 hold for Soul Trader®, only time will tell, but your support, input and encouragement is welcomed as we shape the future of Soul Trader®.