Singer, Songwriter & Activist

Holly Near is an internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, and activist whose career has spanned more than five decades. A pioneer of socially conscious music, she has consistently used her art to champion human rights, peace, feminism, LGBTQ+ equality, and environmental justice.

Emerging from the vibrant cultural movements of the 1970s, Near quickly became recognized not only for her powerful voice but also for her courage in raising issues often absent from the mainstream stage. She founded Redwood Records in 1976, one of the first independent labels dedicated to women’s music and progressive artists, providing a vital platform for voices of change.

Holly’s body of work includes over 30 albums, with songs translated into multiple languages and performed worldwide. She has shared the stage with luminaries such as Pete Seeger, Joan Baez, Mercedes Sosa, and Sweet Honey in the Rock, uniting audiences in a global call for justice.

In addition to her music, Holly has been honored for her unwavering dedication to activism, receiving numerous awards recognizing her as both an artist and an advocate. Through her performances, recordings, and teaching, she continues to inspire generations to raise their voices for compassion, justice, and peace.