“Emily Barnes is more than just a musician; she’s a storyteller that sets the lives of her characters to music. Her sophomore release Let in the Light should be both required reading and listening for anyone who is feeling or has ever felt fractured by life.” - Divide and Conquer
Emily Barnes is a contemporary folk singer/songwriter whose music breathes life into the characters and stories of everyday people. With a voice that cuts to the bone and songs that tug on the heart strings, she crafts songs that feel both intimately personal and universally human.
Born and raised in Johnsonburg, New Jersey (a town so small it doesn’t appear on most maps) Barnes began writing songs on the stone steps of her 200 year old house. From those early years of big dreaming to today she has build a grassroots following the old fashioned way…one song, one story and one listener at a time. Performing from cities to small towns, theaters to backyards, her songs are woven into the threads of everyday living and hearts of everyday people.
Her latest album, Mint Condition, took her on a sold out tour throughout the Northeast and was followed by the single Comets which was named the winner of the 2026 Hey Nonny Songwriting Contest in Arlington Heights, IL.
A recognized talent in the songwriting community, Emily has been a finalist in several major festivals including the Kerrville Folk Festival, Red Lodge Songwriters Festival, Blast on the Bay, and The Acorn Songwriting Contest.
With four albums under her belt and a growing reputation as a storyteller of uncommon depth, Emily Barnes continues to carve out a space that is wholly her own in the modern folk landscape.
Alternating hosting by René Moffatt and Emily Barnes Schedule may change depending on tour schedule and family obligations. We will have 2-3 songwriters in the round or song swap style for free storytelling and behind the song. Please join us! February, April, June, August, October, December - Emily Barnes March, May, July, September, November- René Moffatt
