Winter Songwriter Series - Woody Woodburn, Julia Godden, Barry James Payne

Friday Night Sessions

Winter Songwriter Series — Final Round

Thursday, February 27 | 8:00 PM | Doors open at 7:00 PM

Pay What You Can (suggested $15) | https://www.simpletix.com/e/the-bunker-friday-night-sessions-winter-so-tickets-256416

The Bunker Performance Lounge & Cafe | 104 Wellington Street, Stratford

The Winter Songwriter Series wraps up with the third and final night of this three-part Friday Night Sessions run—bringing three songwriters together on one stage for an intimate evening of original music and shared stories. This songwriter-in-the-round format invites the audience into the creative process, with each artist taking turns performing and offering insight into the songs they’ve written.

This closing night features a thoughtful mix of experience, perspective, and storytelling from three Ontario-based artists.

Woody Woodburn

Originally from Mississauga and now based in Rockwood, Ontario, Woody Woodburn’s musical journey began in the Canadian music scene of the mid-1990s. Drawn to the small-town lifestyle of his Cape Breton roots, Woody brings a grounded, honest approach to songwriting shaped by lived experience. His songs focus on real moments and shared struggles, delivered with a powerful voice and a sense of familiarity—like reconnecting with an old friend through music.

Julia Godden

At just 21, Julia Godden has already spent years performing across Ontario. Hailing from Acton, she’s been playing shows since the age of 14, appearing at restaurants, farmers’ markets, festivals, fall fairs, open mics, concert halls, and as a busker. Her indie-folk songwriting draws directly from her own experiences, paired with a strong vocal range and an easy stage presence. Julia has released three singles to date and performed at Cicada Fest in 2024, with influences that echo artists like Phoebe Bridgers, Joni Mitchell, and Noah Kahan.

Barry James Payne (String Bone)

Barry James Payne is the singer-songwriter behind String Bone. Born in London, Ontario, his musical path has taken him through Vancouver, Toronto, and Montreal before settling in Stratford. His writing blends Folk, Alt-Country, Blues, and Rock, often rooted in Americana and Canadiana traditions. Payne’s songs explore social issues alongside personal stories of love, loss, and memory. A longtime core member of the Celtic-roots band Rant Maggie Rant, he has performed in theatres and festivals across Canada and the U.S., produced albums, and shared stages with many respected Canadian artists.

Join us for the final night of the Winter Songwriter Series—an evening built around original songs, shared stories, and a listening-room experience that brings artists and audience closer together.