Joel Barber is a worship leader and songwriter with Bethel Music, based in Leicester, UK, with a lifelong devotion to the presence of God and the local church. Born in the seaside town of Southend, Essex, Joel was raised in a church-planting family where his father started a church in a bar and his mother came to faith. Joel’s love for music and worship was formed from a young age—playing drums during church setup, attending every worship gathering he could, and carrying a deep conviction that he was made to worship. At age 11, his family moved to Leicester to plant what would become Chroma Church, where Joel first led worship in a small home group and now serves as Worship Pastor and one of the senior leaders. His musical journey began on drums before he went on to study electric guitar at the Institute of Contemporary Music in London, commuting from Leicester while continuing to serve in church. At 19, he released his first solo EP, and by 20, he stepped into the role of Worship Pastor at Chroma, building and discipling a worship team.
Joel carries a calling to raise up a generation of worshippers—modern-day Levites—who prioritize the Lord’s presence. Marked by a deep passion for intimacy with God and a genuine love for the Holy Spirit, he lives with a conviction that time spent seeking Him in the secret place is the foundation for everything and desires to know Him as a close and constant friend. His approach to worship is marked by both joyful praise and deep intimacy, with a passion to write and lead songs that move the heart of the Holy Spirit.
Over the years, Bethel has played a significant role in shaping Joel and sowing into the vision of Chroma Worship—through relationships, prophetic words, and pastoral guidance. In 2025, Joel first led at Bethel Church, later joining the Bethel Music collective in 2026. Joel still lives in Leicester, where he leads Chroma Worship, calling the team to dream big, walk faithfully, and carry the presence of God with purity and power. Whether leading worship, writing songs, prayer walking through the city, or cheering on Leicester City Football Club, his life reflects a steady commitment to presence, people, and purpose.
