Amber Rubarth is not your typical folk musician. Her music is a rich tapestry of storytelling, blending haunting melodies with intimate lyrics that reveal a life lived fully outside the conventional path. Known for her soulful voice, global tours, and award-winning compositions, Amber has carved a niche in the folk music scene that feels both authentic and transcendent. But before the stages, albums, and collaborations, Amber’s journey began with a chainsaw.
Socials
| Platform | Link |
|---|---|
| https://www.instagram.com/amberrubarth | |
| https://www.facebook.com/amberrubarthmusic | |
| Twitter/X | https://twitter.com/amberrubarth |
| Official Website | https://www.amberrubarth.com |
Early Life & Sculpting Origins
Childhood and California Roots
Amber Rubarth was born in California, where her early years were marked by creativity and curiosity. From a young age, she displayed a fascination with both music and art, though her initial path diverged from the one we know today.
The Leap at 17: Carving Wood in Nevada
At just 17, Amber took a bold step, leaving home to apprentice as a chainsaw sculptor in Carson City, Nevada. Surrounded by raw wood and heavy tools, she honed a craft that demanded patience, precision, and imagination. These early years were not just about sculpture they were lessons in resilience, focus, and embracing one’s passions wholeheartedly.
Turning Point at 21: Picking Up the Guitar
By 21, Amber felt the pull of music stronger than the allure of sculpting. She picked up a guitar, taught herself the fundamentals, and began writing songs that reflected her inner world. This transition was the first of many in a career defined by courage and self-discovery.
Learning the Craft: Self-Made Musician
Open Mic Beginnings and Self-Taught Guitar
Amber’s initial performances were humble: open mic nights, small cafes, and community events. Each stage was a classroom, and every audience a teacher. Her dedication to mastering guitar and songwriting without formal training set the tone for a career built on self-motivation and persistence.
Building Networks, Booking, Touring
Recognizing that talent alone was not enough, Amber learned the business side of music early. She booked her own tours, networked with fellow musicians, and steadily expanded her audience. By combining artistry with entrepreneurship, she laid the foundation for a career that spans continents.
Winning the NPR Contest and First Major Album
Amber’s breakthrough came when she won the Grand Prize in NPR’s Mountain Stage New Song Contest. This recognition opened doors, leading to her debut album releases and opportunities to tour internationally, establishing her as a rising voice in the folk scene.
Career Rise: Albums, Tours & Collaborations
Solo Albums
Amber has released several solo albums that showcase her evolving artistry: New Green Lines, A Common Case of Disappearing, and Wildflowers in the Graveyard. Each album blends introspective lyrics with melodic finesse, drawing listeners into a world that is uniquely hers. Her latest work, Cover Crop, reflects her deep connection to nature and creative independence.
Collaborations: The Paper Raincoat & Applewood Road
Beyond solo work, Amber co-founded the Brooklyn-based indie band The Paper Raincoat and the UK-based harmony trio Applewood Road. Both projects highlight her collaborative spirit, offering harmonies and compositions that complement her solo work while exploring new musical dimensions.
Major Performances
Amber has graced stages worldwide, from intimate venues to iconic locations like Carnegie Hall. She has toured in Europe, South Africa, Japan, and North America, performing alongside acclaimed artists such as Jason Mraz and Emmylou Harris. These performances solidify her reputation as a compelling live artist with a loyal global fanbase.
On Screen & Behind the Scenes: Film and Production
Role and Soundtrack of American Folk
Amber expanded her artistry into film with a leading role in American Folk (2018), also contributing to its soundtrack. The film highlighted her musical storytelling, earning critical praise and bringing her music to a wider audience.
Scoring and Producing for Documentaries
Her creative reach extends to documentary production, including scoring for Fantastic Fungi, where she fused natural soundscapes with evocative folk melodies. These projects demonstrate Amber’s ability to blend music with broader artistic narratives.
Creative Evolution: Cover Crop and Nature Themes
Her self-produced album Cover Crop exemplifies her mature vision: songs inspired by nature, sustainability, and the human connection to the environment. Amber’s work now reflects a holistic artistic philosophy, merging sound, story, and lifestyle.
Lifestyle, Philosophy & Personal Interests
Amber’s life outside the spotlight is as intentional as her music. She resides in the Hudson Valley, immersing herself in nature and sustainability. Her daily rituals include mindful practices, connection with the environment, and creative exploration. While details of her personal relationships remain private, her focus on independence, artistry, and community underscores her lifestyle as one shaped by choice, not convention.
Net Worth & Luxury-Lifestyle Note
Amber Rubarth’s exact net worth is not publicly disclosed, reflecting her preference for privacy. However, her international touring, album production, and film projects indicate a successful and self-sufficient career. Unlike traditional celebrity culture, Amber’s lifestyle emphasizes meaningful experiences, intimate venues, and creative autonomy over ostentatious display.
Achievements & Legacy
Amber’s achievements reflect both talent and tenacity:
- NPR Mountain Stage New Song Contest winner
- International touring and performances at Carnegie Hall
- Collaborations with The Paper Raincoat and Applewood Road
- Lead role and soundtrack contribution in American Folk
- Innovative, nature-inspired projects like Cover Crop
Her story from chainsaw sculptor to acclaimed folk artist stands as a testament to following passion and embracing unconventional paths, inspiring both fans and aspiring musicians worldwide.
FAQs
Who is Amber Rubarth?
Amber Rubarth is an American singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and actress known for her soulful folk music and global touring.
What albums has Amber Rubarth released?
Notable albums include New Green Lines, A Common Case of Disappearing, Wildflowers in the Graveyard, and Cover Crop.
Has Amber Rubarth acted in films?
Yes, she played the lead in American Folk (2018) and contributed to its soundtrack.
Is Amber Rubarth married or does she have children?
There is no publicly verified information about her marital status or children.
Where has Amber Rubarth performed internationally?
Amber has toured Europe, South Africa, Japan, and North America, including Carnegie Hall.
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Final Thoughts
Amber Rubarth’s journey is a remarkable story of creativity, courage, and self-determination. From wielding a chainsaw in Nevada to captivating audiences worldwide with her music, she embodies the essence of a modern folk artist: independent, authentic, and deeply connected to her craft. Her path reminds us that unconventional beginnings can lead to extraordinary artistry, and that the heart of music lies in passion, resilience, and a willingness to follow one’s unique calling.
Biography Table
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Amber Rubarth |
| Profession | Singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, actress |
| Birthplace | California, USA |
| Age | Not publicly confirmed |
| Spouse | Not publicly confirmed |
| Children | Not publicly confirmed |
| Notable Albums | New Green Lines, A Common Case of Disappearing, Wildflowers in the Graveyard, Cover Crop |
| Awards | NPR Mountain Stage New Song Contest Winner |
| Film | American Folk (Lead role and soundtrack) |
| Tours | Europe, South Africa, Japan, North America |
| Website | amberrubarth.com |
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