Ren Barlow is an Australian singer, songwriter and soulful female artist with deep country roots. Classically and contemporarily trained in voice, Ren has been performing since she was a young child. Both as a solo artist and as part of various ensembles. Her impressive career includes performances with Melbourne Opera, Melbourne City Opera and the Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Victoria among others. Ren’s musical journey follows three distinct paths: Acoustic Covers (A reimagining of her favourite songs over the years, spanning both male and female artists, delivered in her signature acoustic style), Original Works (A diverse collection of songs blending classical, pop, rock and country influences, with a production leaning towards the sounds and sensibilities of country rock and Tributes to Legends (Ren’s unique take on the timeless music of 1950s rock and roll pioneer, Buddy Holly and Linda Ronstadt).
Ren is excited to present her new album release ‘The Songbook of My Heart.’ The album is more than music, it is a tapestry of memories, love, and longing, stitched together through songs that have shaped Ren’s journey. The melodies hold the echoes of joy and sorrow, resilience and hope and the tender spaces in between. ‘The Songbook of My Heart’ isn’t a tribute to Linda Ronstadt, it is Ren’s story, told through the songs that gave her a voice when she didn’t have the words. These songs have been with Ren through love, heartbreak, family and the moments where she had to find the strength to begin again. “When I sing them, I’m not just revisiting the past, I am opening the chapters of my own life. Linda’s music has always felt like a companion and now it becomes the lens through which I share who I am, where I’ve been, and what I carry forward. This album is deeply personal. It’s my journey written into song, my truth, my memories and my heart,” – Ren explains.
On October 16, Ren will take to the stage for a very special evening, performing ‘The Songbook of my Heart’ a heartfelt tribute to one of her greatest musical influences, Linda Ronstadt. With reverence and artistry, Ren will breathe new life into Ronstadt’s iconic songs, reimagining them with her own soulful style and emotional depth. “I love the process of putting my own take on the songs, pulling them apart and creating a new sound, keeping them simple and raw. It’s been so much fun and such a wonderful journey,” says Ren.
Ren is currently working on a full-length album of original songs, written and performed by herself, with accompanying music videos. These songs, shaped by truth, longing, love, and resilience, reflect a life lived with passion and purpose. Beyond her own music, Ren’s passions are rooted in creative expression and empowering others through literacy and education. As well as mentoring young musicians, helping them build a solid foundation in the industry and supporting them in pursuing their musical dreams.
THE SONGBOOK OF MY HEART – SHOW DETAILS:
SHOW DATE: 16/10/2025
TIME: Doors 7pm, Show 8pm
VENUE: Memo Music Hall – 88 Acland Street, St Kilda
Songs that shaped a woman, a voice, a life. In ‘The Songbook of My Heart,’ singer-songwriter Ren Barlow invites you into an intimate evening of music and storytelling—a reflection on love, loss, strength, and the turning points that shaped her life. Framed by the unforgettable songs of Linda Ronstadt, Ren shares her journey through raw and honest reflections, weaving personal stories with music that once held her, moved her and helped her find her voice again. These aren’t just covers, they are emotional postcards from Ren’s own path, delivered with deep soul and vulnerability. Featuring songs like ‘Long Long Time,’ ‘Blue Bayou,’ ‘You’re No Good,’ ‘Desperado’ and more, this show is not a tribute — it’s a reclamation. A musical memoir for anyone who has ever been cracked open and somehow stitched themselves back together with a melody.
Ren Barlow Music History:
Released ‘Raining in my Heart’ and had a Buddy Holly show (Sold Out Show)
Collaborated with Tim Wild (Taxi Ride), Karl Lewis (Killing Heidi) & Darren Steel
‘Blue Days Black Nights’ went Top 5 and the album went Top 10 in the Country charts
Ren Barlow’s charity work & advocacy
After time away due to personal reasons, Ren returns as her most authentic self as a person & Artist in ’The Songbook of My Heart’
Profits for the show will be going to support OCRF (Ovarian Cancer Research Foundation) via their October campaign ‘Frocktober.’ Ren is a big supporter of the foundation and sits on one of their finance boards. Ren has sadly lost family & friends to ovarian cancer. For ‘Frocktober’ they will be creating 31 dresses, 31 days, one cause. Ren has also been a driving force behind the ‘White Shirt’ campaign.
Ren’s true passion is around Literacy – Four areas
Reading for young children
Financial literacy for woman
Wellness Literacy for woman and girls
Music Literacy for children
Ren has created a personal foundation which is based around Literacy ‘The Literacy Gift’ (originally called ‘Children’s Literacy Gift’). Ren has personally put reading corners into schools which have limited resources. Countries include: Australia, Fiji and Papua New Guinea. The foundation also supports indigenous communities with resources for literacy including the employment of teachers. ’The Literary Gift’ also has various partners involved in regard to Women’s Financial literacy.
Ren works closely with another charity where they place Music Teachers into school, through ‘The Song Room.’
Ren was also lucky enough to be a part of this year’s UN congress in New York, meeting with other women to discuss what other things can be done in this space. Prior to that journey, Ren spent some time on Necker Island with Richard Branson through the charity ‘Igniting Change’ where she also got to spend some time with Mary Robinson – who is a part of the Elders group to help our planet. Ren calls herself a Peacemaker for humanity. She doesn’t judge religion, race, political views, or status, and believes that every person and animal deserves to feel safe no matter what.
“For a long time, I felt caged and unable to have a voice. There was a part of me for many years that was squashed, Now I feel like I have my voice back. I hope to share my journey so I can not only heal parts of me, but I can help other people as well. Whether a young child, musician, woman, I feel like I have been gifted an opportunity to do this, through music and literacy.” – Ren Barlow
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