Trained as an artist and dramatist, she began her musical career in 2000 in Britain's alternative festival scene, as part of the travelling troupe called the Small World Solar Stage.

She appeared on several compilations, including her song "The Saddest Game" about child soldiers in Africa on The Big Issue's Peace Not War CD.

[6] Throughout her career, Tilston has played unaccompanied solo gigs to larger concerts with the six-piece backing band The Woods.

Following a maternity break, she resumed playing live in April 2009, appearing on the fourth Zero 7 studio album, Yeah Ghost.

Tilston released two albums of largely self-penned songs (Lucy and the Wolves in 2010 and Machines of Love And Grace in 2012).