Guitar Wifey uncovered

Aberdeen might be styled on grey granite, but its local legends are nothing short of colourful.

Sanda, aka Guitar Wifey, came to Aberdeen seven years ago by bus from Transylvania, Romania, knowing nothing about Scotland.

The 60-year-old and her husband, who sells the Big Issue on Union Street, live in Torry.

After tipping her a good few quid, we got an interview.

Bonding over their Romanian language

So why do you busk in Aberdeen?

People are so good to me here, God bless them.

I’m happy with what people give me, even if it’s money, food and sometimes clothes.

Can you look after yourself properly by busking?

Well, it is a tough life, but I do not complain. One of the biggest tip I got was a note of 20 and believe me, I had no idea what to do with it at the time. So, yes, people are generous to me.

Do you intend to go back to Romania?

No, not at all. My children are here in UK as well, there is basically no home for me. And here people like me, as you can see.

Are you aware of your online presence, the Facebook page?

Yes, of course I know about it!

I have been told to do more photos and it looks really nice.

Strumming that guitar like no one’s business, Guitar Wifey, the icon.

Where is your favourite place to sing?

Bon Accord and St Nicholas during warmer days, since people come and go shopping and coins fly easily.

But I also busk by the pubs and clubs, particularly The Monkey house. I have contact with the bagpiper and the electric violin guy, so that we do not step on each others’ patch. It is hard, but again, people are generous.

So, what do you sing?

You know, songs… There is no particular language and no lyrics, but it has a rhythm.

Such a BNIC, even a fan wanted a selfie

Do you play any other instrument?

The guitar is the only thing I know to play, which I learned here in UK. So when my pink guitar broke I got a new one from the charity shop.

How do you keep warm in Aberdeen’s baltic conditions?

 I have many tricks,  I wear a lot of layers, but I also keep hot water bottles under my clothes, so I can keep playing my guitar

So famous she’s even on people’s Tinder accounts