This Is Live is our online video showcase of the best of the city's music talent. This week it's the turn of singer-songwriter Irene Rae.

SHE has supported everyone from Midge Ure and Hazel O'Connor to The Levellers and John Power of The La's.

"Everyday life and how people treat each other are my main influences," says Irene Rae, who has been playing alto saxophone from the age of 12. It wasn't until she was 22 that Irene picked up a guitar, teaching herself by listening to her favourite musicians.

She spends most of her time touring up and down the country and enjoys discovering new audiences to play in front of.

Watch her chatting to This Is Live's Zoe Kirk on the Stealth sofa and performing her track Afraid.

And you are?

Irene Rae - I play electro-acoustic guitar and sing.

History?

I have been solo for about four-and-a-half-years now. I was the front woman of a rock band but I wanted to go take on a quieter and more subtle tone.

Who are your main influences?

Anything from metal to opera and everything in between. I listen to all sorts and take small parts from each. I guess my main influences would be Tori Amos and Counting Crows.

What is your day job?

I work part-time to support my music after being a full time musician for a while (damn credit crunch!) I sell advertising space in a car magazine.

Claims to fame?

I've support some cool names; Midge Ure, John Power, Rod Clements... but my best claim to fame is that I had a drink with Dizzee Rascal when I lived in London and I didn't even know who he was! My friend was very jealous. I just thought he was a nice guy.

Next gig?

I have loads of gigs all over the country - they change on a daily basis, so it's best to check the website.

Music for sale?

My album is available from my website or iTunes, Napster, Amazon and all other digital download sites.

Web address?

www.irenerae.co.uk / www.myspace.com/irenerenrae

Click here for the This Is Live archives (found in Entertainment > Local Bands)