“Emily Barnes is more than just a musician; she is 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 feels or has felt fractured by life ”
— Divide and Conquer
Emily Barnes is a contemporary folk singer-songwriter known for her haunting voice and vividly drawn characters. Hailing from the tiny town of Johnsonburg, NJ, she’s built a grassroots following through heartfelt performances and honest storytelling. With four albums to her name—including her latest, Mint Condition, which led to a sold-out Northeast tour—Barnes has also been a finalist in prestigious songwriting contests like the Kerrville Folk Festival, Red Lodge Songwriters Festival, and Acorn Song Contest. Her music invites listeners into a world where every lyric tells a story.