Joyce Brookshire (1941–2017) was a songwriter, activist, and storyteller who cared deeply about her Appalachian heritage. Born in the mountains of northeast Georgia, her journey took her to Atlanta’s Cabbagetown, where her life and music reflected both rural roots and city life.
Highlights of Joyce’s Life:
- Moved with her family to Cabbagetown, living in a small $11/month mill house.
- Wrote her first song at only 10 years old.
- Sang with bands and made several solo albums, including work on the Foxfire label.
- Worked at The Patch, helping kids in crisis.
- Spoke out through her music and her actions for human rights and justice.
- Remembered by friends for her gift of saying in song what could not be said in words.
Joyce’s story is closely tied to Cabbagetown itself, the place she called home most of her life. Though only one square mile, Joyce embodied the creative artistic spirit of this town, and her music continues to inspire people today.
To honor her memory, the community is building the Joyce Brookshire Memorial Amphitheatre, a new space that will keep her love for music, justice, and community alive for years to come.