Robin Barnes is an American jazz singer and fitness leader from New Orleans, Louisiana, United States, best known for her jazz EP "Songbird Sessions" released in 2016.[1] [2]
Barnes was born in New Orleans, Louisiana and grew up around a family of musicians, including Dave Bartholomew.[3] Barnes came from gospel and jazz roots, and started singing at 6 in her church choir. After a solo performance of “Ave Maria," she decided she wanted to be a singer.[4]
Barnes holds a bachelor's degree from the University of New Orleans in business management and a master's degree in business administration.[5] When she returned from Greece, she was diagnosed with a rare kidney infection and changed her diet.[5] After the diagnosis, Barnes founded Fit by You/Move Ya Brass, a New Orleans-centric fitness lifestyle group.[6] Barnes was featured on Forbes 40 under 40 in 2014 for her workout wear.[7]
Barnes is the At-Large Director on The University of New Orleans International Alumni Board and serves as a member on The Beautiful Foundation, serving uplifting young women.[3]
In 2011, she made music her full-time career.[3] Barnes’ first gig was in the Hotel Monteleone where she still holds a residency along with the Windsor Court.[4] She has grown in popularity since her debut in the United States and in Europe.[8] Barnes has been named the “Songbird of New Orleans" by several media outlets.[8]
Barnes won “Favorite New Orleans Musician” by New Orleans magazine as well as Gambit Magazine’s artist to watch in 2015.[9]
She released five songs on her Jazz EP Songbird Sessions on Aug. 26, 2016 through Rhythm Elevation Records.[10] The album was made with bassist Pat Casey. Robin cites influences including Allen Toussaint and Irma Thomas.[4] Percussionists Riley and Powell and guitarists Masakowski and Danny Abel also appear.[4] Songbird Sessions debuted at number 5 on the Traditional Jazz Albums Billboard Charts.[11] Her album was also number 8 on the Current Jazz Albums chart.[12]
Barnes is currently working on a full-length album.[3]