First Church Congregational is pleased to announce a heart-opening evening of music with award-winning folk/pop artist Bobby Jo Valentine, performing in concert on Thursday, May 29, at 7:00 pm.
Bobby Jo Valentine is an explorative, hopeful, spiritual, and queer artist whose music and poetry offer healing and reflection for people from all walks of life. A TEDx speaker and multiple award-winning songwriter, he believes in the soft, steady power of everyday acts of love to help heal the world.
While his music defies easy categorization, Bobby Jo’s thoughtful, spiritually focused lyrics and memorable melodies resonate deeply with audiences across genres and generations. His poetic storytelling and soul-stirring songs have earned him critical acclaim and a loyal, growing fan base nationwide. His voice carries original, hopeful songs that celebrate the gentle, everyday awakenings of an openhearted life.
Emerging from the strict lines and sharp edges of a Baptist upbringing, Bobby Jo has embraced a broader, kinder, more inclusive spirituality—one that is eager to learn, open to growth, and rooted in love.
In addition to performing at theaters, house concerts, and other venues, Bobby Jo is frequently invited to share his music and stories with faith communities across the country.
His appearances include The Wild Goose Festival, the international Emerge Conference, and the 2017 General Synod of the United Church of Christ. His work has been featured on radio, television, and in feature films, and he has twice received “Song of the Year” honors from the West Coast Songwriters Association. Beyond performance, he leads artist residencies and songwriting workshops, helping communities creatively use their spaces and voices in meaningful ways.
Tony Award-winning composer Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Wicked, Pippin) praised Valentine’s performances, saying, “Catchy songs with good tunes and intelligent, thoughtful lyrics in the tradition of Bob Dylan, Cat Stevens, and Bruce Hornsby.”
Doors open at 6:30 pm. Entry is free; donations are welcome. First Church Congregational is located at 63 South Main Street, next to the Rochester Public Library.