"I've never really considered myself a 'guitarist'," remarks Julia when asked about her musical background. Growing up in midtown Atlanta where both the guitar and classic rock-n-roll were fixtures in the house, it would seem as though it might have been her instrument of choice. Instead she chose to join the middle school band, which later led her to enroll in a performing arts high school and a local university's community band with both clarinet and saxophone in tow. It was not until the past few years that Julia considered the guitar as more than a songwriting tool. With the exception of her attendance at two week-long music workshops, she is entirely self-taught.

Having played for several years in hard rock and heavy metal bands, it is easy to hear the influence those experiences had on Julia's style of acoustic guitar playing. Blending these heavy roots with a lighter, folk side makes her sound anything but typical, resulting in a type of music she has dubbed "Hard Folk." Lyrically, Julia stands on solid ground - her use of the pen as an outlet for her thoughts surfaced before she was a teenager, steadily growing into the passionate songs we hear today.

Julia's debut CD "2¢" was recorded with DeDe Vogt at Sound and Fury Studios (Atlanta, GA), produced by Julia, and released in Fall 2004. Since that time, Julia has participated in numerous noteworthy showcases including: Ladyfest South, NGCSU's "Women and Leadership" Conference, GoGirls Showcase, and a mini-tour with the music organization Indiegrrl (hitting some of the premier venues in the southeast - Eddie's Attic, The Loft Live, Moonlight Music Café... very exciting!). She has been a featured performer on the University of Georgia's "Live in the Lobby" radio program, and has recently performed solo at Atlanta venues such as Smith's Olde Bar and Java Monkey.

While her original compositions dominate the majority of Julia's live shows, she does perform numerous cover songs as well. Choosing works by artists who have influenced her, the diversified list includes Elton John, Loretta Lynn, Ani DiFranco, Tracy Chapman, and even a poem by Dr. Maya Angelou. Many of Julia's musical influences include independent artists, each of which have helped to pave the way for up-and-comers like herself, and who value "music with a message" rather than an overwhelming emphasis on record sales.

Listen to her here! Tell Julia you saw her on Love to Sing!