Lynnette Barber &
Will Ellis Blues

Lynnette Barber & Will Ellis deliver a soulful blues experience rooted in powerhouse vocals and expressive piano. Their dynamic chemistry blends blues, soul, and gospel into feel‑good performances that move audiences of all ages. With decades of combined artistry, the duo brings storytelling, groove, and joy to every stage.Lynnette Barber and Will Ellis Blues Duo:

Lynnette Barber:
Lynnette Barber is a North Carolina native with a voice for the world to hear. Her sassy stage presence accentuates her larger-than-life voice that has left audiences across the United States and abroad speechless and wanting more. She has wowed thousands at Jazz on The Hill, Virgin Gorda BVI, and at the International Blues Festival in Memphis, TN.

Lynnette's voice sets the tone to tell an eloquent story with every song she sings. Whether she is performing in a musical, or an intimate jazz club, you will never be disappointed! Lynnette has won many jazz competitions across the state. She is undoubtedly one of the music industry's best. She has shared the stage with Blues Great, Koko Taylor, and the legendary Melba Moore.

Lynnette Barber fully delivers an unforgettable experience of R & B, Jazz, Blues, Rock, and Gospel, sometimes mixing genres within the same show. She has received regional acclaim from her dramatic reenactments of Sojourner Truth, Mahalia Jackson, Harriet Tubman and many more. Prepare to feel good from your head to your toes, Lynnette Barber can sing away all your woes.

Will Ellis:
Will Ellis has entertained countless audiences over the years, sharing the stage with renowned national and international artists such as American Idol’s Ruben Studdard, “Queen of Gospel” Pastor, Shirley Caesar, and many more.

Will Ellis’s passion for music and his charismatic stage presence add an extra dimension of dynamism and allure to his performances, captivating audiences and enhancing the overall musicality.

International Blues Challenge:

Together, Lynnette Barber and Will Ellis Blues Duo emerged victorious in the local Triangle Blues Society challenge, October 6, 2024, earning the right to represent the area in the 40th International Blues Challenge in Memphis, TN. The Duo competed four days, winning quarterfinals and semifinals before advancing to the finals alongside 10 other acts from around the world.

Sponsored by the National Blues Foundation, Lynnette and Will delivered a riveting live performance at the historic Orpheum Theatre on Beale Street, Memphis, TN, showcasing five of their original compositions.

Lynnette and Will were also featured in the National Women in Blues event at Alfred's on Beale Street. Their EP, “That's the Blues,” released on New Year’s Day 2025, and available on all streaming platform.

“Legacy in Motion” - Black History’s Storytelling Journey

Legacy in Motion is an interactive educational assembly designed for students in Pre-Kindergarten through 8th grade. Using music, movement, storytelling, and call-and-response, the program introduces students to the importance of Black History Month and the role Black Americans have played in shaping United States history and culture.

Students learn why Black History Month is celebrated in February, when it was established, and the contributions of Dr. Carter G. Woodson, who led efforts to ensure Black history became part of American education. The program highlights key Black inventors and innovators and connects their contributions to everyday items familiar to students, helping make history relevant and accessible.

Students are guided through American history through Black music, including spirituals, blues, jazz, civil rights songs, and contemporary music. Each musical era reinforces core educational themes such as resilience, creativity, collaboration, civic engagement, and self-expression.

Age-appropriate participation is woven throughout the program to support student engagement, and cultural understanding. The program concludes with positive affirmations, (I am Smart, I am Strong, I Belong), and a shared musical experience that promotes unity, confidence, and respect for diverse stories and identities.

Legacy in Motion aligns with school and district goals by supporting:

· Cultural literacy and historical awareness

· Arts integration and music education

This program provides a meaningful, engaging, and educational experience that leaves students empowered, informed, and inspired.