Quick Facts
Summary
Elle Cato is a British singer, songwriter and vocal coach whose career spans solo releases, session work and major international tours. Classically trained and industry-raised from her teens, she has worked across pop, soul and dance, and is a long-standing collaborator and backing vocalist for Robbie Williams.Biography
Background
Elle Cato, born Lorraine Cato, grew up in a large, musically active family and was immersed in singing from childhood. Her father was a multi-instrumentalist and her early environment encouraged harmony and performance. She was discovered while still at school and entered the music industry professionally as a teenager.
Early career and solo work
Cato released solo material through major labels including Sony and MCA Universal while still completing her education. Her early career combined recording, promotion and songwriting, laying the foundations for her later work across different areas of the industry.
“I was signed by the time I was 16 whilst I was doing my GCSEs. My mind, my body, my soul, everything was just music driven”Elle Cato
Vocal training and session work
After her initial recording contracts ended, Cato shifted her focus towards vocal coaching and session singing. Classically trained from her mid-teens, she became known for technical consistency and vocal longevity, leading to repeat work from record labels and artists.
“If they see that your voice can stand the test of time, they’re going to keep sending people to you”Elle Cato
Touring and collaborations
Her career expanded into large-scale touring and studio sessions with a wide range of artists. The move from solo performer to backing vocalist developed gradually rather than by design.
“I kind of just fell into it. I went from being an artist to being the backing vocalist, it just kind of happened”Elle Cato
Work with Robbie Williams
Cato first worked with Robbie Williams in 2012 on recording sessions and television performances. Over time, this developed into regular live appearances and private engagements, establishing a long-term professional relationship.
“It felt like a family. Everyone’s really loving and kind to each other”Elle Cato
Joining the Robbie Williams band
Elle Cato joined the Robbie Williams touring band as a backing vocalist during the XXV tour in 2023. She initially joined as a temporary replacement before becoming a regular member of the touring line-up.
Songwriting and outlook
Alongside touring, Cato continues to write and release her own music. She describes songwriting as a personal and emotional process rather than a commercial exercise.
“For me it’s therapy. It’s a way of venting how I’m feeling or how everybody else around me is feeling”Elle Cato