Born in South Carolina, singer, songwriter, and guitarist Dave Barnes grew up in Mississippi, where he was initially attracted to hip-hop but was also exposed to classic soul, blues, and R&B by his parents. While at college he began to realize that his calling was as a musician and songwriter. After graduating from Middle Tennessee State University with a degree in recording industry management, Barnes relocated to Nashville, TN, to throw his hat into the ring and start his professional musical career.