Jen & Rob Slocumb
Jen and Rob Slocumb met in 1996 in a Houston coffee shop and bonded over a shared love of songs. They fell in love, got married, and formed Martha's Trouble. Jen is from Ancaster, Ontario, and Rob was born in Nashville.
The music
Over the years, Martha's Trouble has become a quietly enduring presence in the Americana and folk-rock world. The duo has released multiple independent albums, toured extensively across the U.S. and internationally, and earned recognition from outlets including Billboard, USA Today, Performing Songwriter, and XM Satellite Radio. Their music has also been featured in national television productions such as Army Wives, Playing House (Lifetime), and It Must Be Love (CBS).
“Americana Album of the Year”
Just Plain Folks Awards
Their catalog has earned notable honors, including Americana Album of the Year (Just Plain Folks Awards), a Top Holiday Album selection by USA Today for Christmas Lights, and a Top 10 Cover Song nod from Billboard. Their album Forget October remains a defining release, continuing to resonate with listeners years after its debut.
Their journey has evolved — from years spent touring out of a van to raising a family, running businesses, and investing in their local music community — but the heart of Martha's Trouble remains the same: thoughtful songwriting, rich harmonies, and a commitment to creating something meaningful.
The name
The name "Martha's Trouble," drawn from the biblical story of Martha and Mary, reflects that perspective — a reminder to stay grounded, to focus on what matters, and to make space for both the work and the wonder.
Today, Jen and Rob continue to write, record, and perform while also leading broader creative efforts through The Sound Wall Music Initiative. Their work lives at the intersection of artistry and community — building not just songs, but spaces and experiences where music is heard, shared, and valued.
The Sound Wall
In 2016, Jen and Rob put down roots in Opelika, Alabama, transforming a historic 1907 home into The Sound Wall — a creative space that houses a recording studio, artist residence, and intimate performance venue. What began as a home base for their own work has grown into a vibrant hub for live music and artistic collaboration.
Sound Wall Music Initiative
Through The Sound Wall Music Initiative, a nonprofit, Jen and Rob help promote and celebrate music in the Auburn and Opelika community, with the songwriters festival, workshops for players of every level, and music education in local schools.
Opelika Songwriters Festival
Building on that momentum, in 2019 they co-founded the Opelika Songwriters Festival alongside Russell Carter of RCAM. What began as a multi-venue, listening-room-style concept has grown into a destination event, drawing acclaimed songwriters and audiences from across the region and beyond.
The festival reflects the same values that have shaped their career: authentic songwriting, intimate performances, and a deep respect for the craft.
Newsletter
New songs and show dates, by email.