Monica Joy has been making music for as long as she can remember -- first on the piano, then with acoustic guitar, and more recently on African drums. And although she has been writing songs since her teen years, most of her music remained unheard until some friends in the music business gave her a great kick in the pants, along with a great dose of encouragement.

With the release of her first album If Everything is Lost, the spring of 2005 marked a new chapter for Monica's music.  She was honoured to be nominated for 'Folk Album of the Year' alongside one of her musical heroes.  "I've always felt fortunate to have music in my life as an outlet, a way of journaling and worshipping and coping. I haven't always felt the need for my music to be heard by anyone other than my 'audience of One,' but over the last couple of years, the desire to share it has begun to burn in me. I'm encouraged that God seems to be taking this music that has been like 'therapy' in my life and is using it in the lives of others." Monica was thrilled to have had some extremely talented musicians from around the province come together to bring 13 of her original works to life, in the hope that these songs would bring others a blend of 'ear candy', praise, encouragement, even healing.

Sometimes described as 'folk pop', Monica Joy's music is an earthy, mellow blend of piano, guitars, violin, cello and African percussion. In her warm, honest vocals, it is easy to hear her heart for those who feel worn or crushed by life's hardships, and her passion to live a life that delights her Creator. Often inspired by a hymn, a scripture or others' writings, Monica's lyrics reflect a longing for renewal and unhindered devotion to the God-pleasing life we were meant to live.

Monica lives near Lake Huron in Zurich, Ontario with her beloved hubby Tim, their two young daughters, Maia and Eliana, and their furry son Phil (a chocolate lab).  Before mommyhood, Monica has spent many hours sharing her love of music as a teacher at a local elementary school.  Recently, she has been coaching other local singer/songwriters and will soon be launching a songwriting business to celebrate and grieve alongside families at the milestone moments in their lives.  Monica enjoys opportunities to share her music in cafes, concerts and churches, both as a solo artist and with other musicians.