Sam Shackleton, also known by his moniker name, Sorley the Bard, is a Scottish folk artist, busker and folklorist. In 2020 he graduated from the School of Scottish Studies at the University of Edinburgh, studying Scottish Studies and specialising in folklore and ethnomusicology. He spends his days writing, rambling, performing and busking around the streets of Edinburgh and beyond, sharing his unique musical style through his own writing and interpretation of the folk traditions, songs and ballads that came before him.

His music is deeply inspired by the rich musical oral traditions of Scotland, Ireland and the United States. He sings and plays banjo, guitar and harmonica. His unique sound is a mix of country, traditional, folk and blues with a Scottish spirit. He was born in Stirling and raised all over Scotland, from the Borders to the Highlands. His music is deeply inspired by the oral tradition, musical culture and landscapes of the Scottish nation. He views his music as part of the carrying stream of folk tradition.