About Charles

Charles Motley is a longtime Central Coast musician who began writing and performing songs at age 13, after his dad handed him his first guitar. Over the past 25+ years, he’s crafted a style that blends alternative rock, pop, and country into a sound that’s uniquely his own.

For 15 years, Charles was part of the original band CAMP, known for its heartfelt songwriting and energetic live shows. In 2004, his song “Touchy Girl” won a Santa Barbara radio contest, earning him recognition across the region. Since then, he’s continued to perform throughout California’s Central Coast and beyond—playing everything from private events and local breweries to wineries and clubs like Soho in Santa Barbara.

His solo sets feature a wide mix of well-known covers across nearly every genre, alongside original songs that showcase his evolving style and wide vocal range. Rather than relying on digital loops or backing tracks, Charles prefers a more organic and pure analog approach, using foot-driven percussion (which he calls “acoustic pedals”), harmonica, and guitar all at once to create a full, unique live sound.

Whether it’s an intimate bar or a larger crowd, Charles brings an authentic, grounded performance that reflects his love for music, writing and decades of experience on stage.