New library concert series to feature Duquette Johnston

The Emmet O’Neal Library will kick off its Friday night free entertainment series Standing Room Only with a concert by Alabama-based singer-songwriter Duquette Johnston.

On Friday, Nov. 15, Johnston and his string quartet will perform on the library’s Community Meeting Room stage.

Johnston is a southern musician who has paid his dues at the crossroads and beyond and has been featured by NPR and Paste Magazine. He balances the past, present and future of American roots music on the taut strings of his guitar. With razor-sharp playing and harmonies, Duquette transforms his audiences from spectators to participants. His latest album is Rabbit Runs a Destiny.

Up-and-coming local singer-songwriter Rachel Hébert, whom library patrons will recognize from the Emmet O’Neal Children’s Department, will open the show. With roots in Louisiana, North Carolina and Alabama, Hébert’s songs grow up from the swamp, peat and clay of the Southeast. Her music invites you inside; the lyrics ask if you’ll stay and sit a spell. They’re the sort of front-porch songs you’ll come to consider old friends. 

The concert is free, and adult beverages will be served. The show is for ages 21 and older only. Doors open at 7 p.m., and the shows starts at 7:30 p.m. 

The Standing Room Only series will feature more events on select Friday nights every other month. For more, visit eolib.org.