Jess Martin

Artist / Creative (Individual)

Jess Martin, a dynamic singer-songwriter from Western Massachusetts, masterfully blends punk, blues, and rock with rich literary influences. Known for haunting melodies and thought-provoking lyrics, Jess delves deep into themes of identity, belonging, and transformation, creating music that resonates with both the heart and the mind.More information on their website, and music can be experienced via many streaming outlets, Spotify link here.

"Jess Martin’s songs pull you in as their secrets and stories unfold. Whether sharing tales of unrequited love or breathing life into an iconic figure like Amelia Earhart, the listener is treated to catchy driving music that leans on a smidgeon of atonality to make it feel new while also harkening 80s indie artists such as PJ Harvey. I’m a fan!" - Ruth Critcher, The Secret Chord / The Velvet Bouquet

Jess is gaining momentum with Shadow, Sound, Spectacle, an innovative puppetry collaboration that merges music with visual storytelling. This groundbreaking project brings Jess’s narratives to life through intricate puppetry, creating immersive performances that captivate audiences and push the boundaries of traditional live shows.

“Jess has a special knack for community engagement like I’ve never known. Her/their openness in collaboration is among the ways she/they demonstrates her/their personal commitment to advancing her/their music.” - Anders Griffen, Musicevolution

Echoes of Nature: Hampshire County is a collaborative project by Jess Martin & Kim Hoff that explores the landscapes of Hampshire County through poetry and music. This project focuses on six distinct natural locations across six towns, with the goal of creating a series of performances that inspire environmental stewardship & foster inclusive, welcoming spaces. 

This Fall, Jess is set to release three captivating singles:

  • "Nevermore" – A dark, introspective track inspired by Edgar Allan Poe’s timeless tales.
  • "Every Quiet Night" – A soulful exploration of solitude and self-discovery.
  • "Headless" – An edgy, rebellious anthem that challenges conventional narratives.

Each single intertwines Jess’s distinct voice with haunting vibes, offering listeners a unique auditory journey through classic literary landscapes.

Whether releasing new music or embarking on theatrical collaborations, Jess Martin continues to redefine the indie music scene, inviting misfits, dreamers, and outsiders to join in the journey.

Videos:

Primary Discipline

Multi-Disciplinary

Additional Disciplines

Music - General
Music - Band
Music - Electronica
Music - Pop / Rock

Activities

Performance / Concert / Reading
Virtual Events
Arts for Social Change / Creative Activism
Public Art Projects (In Free, Public Spaces)
Community Arts
Professional Network Gatherings / Events
Workshops / Demonstrations / Master Class

Awards

  • 2005 Massachusetts Cultural Council Artist Grant for Playwriting
  • Nominated for Best New Play 2006 for Home by the Independent Reviewers of New England (IRNE)

Education

  • Masters in Playwriting, Boston University

Additional Information

  • Year founded: 2019
  • Is a Touring Artist
  • Approx. 20 events per year
  • Geographic Reach: City/Town-wide, County-wide, Surrounding Counties/Region, State-wide, Surrounding States/Region, Nationally, Internationally
  • Seasons active: Year round