If you've ever seen Emery Carl perform, you know how mesmerizing–and unforgettable–he can be. Carl is one of the longest-performing buskers at the Market, continuing a seven-year run that has him busking as a full time job. It's tough going, but performing is Carl's passion and that love fuels his efforts day in and day out.

The Kansas native captivates crowds with his multi-tasking feats, often playing the harmonica and the guitar while spinning a hula hoop, twirling on one foot, and more.

Carl has had past lives as a youth minister and worship director, and served a 10-year stint in the Air force National Guard. For more information on Carl and for samples of his music, head to his official website.

When from alternative soul artist Whitney Mongé moved from Spokane to Seattle in 2007 to pursue an audio engineering degree, she rented an apartment in Pike Place Market's Stewart House. "I've been connected to the Market from the get-go," she says.

Though she'd sung and played guitar in church for years, Mongé hadn't considered pursuing a career as a recording artist. That changed when she noticed the Market's buskers.

Buskers have performed at #pikeplacemarket for at least 40 years. More than 300 buskers perform annually, at designated spots throughout the market. Singers like Brandi Carlile and Whitney Monge got their start here- you never know what future superstar you may be listening to!

Night scene at Pike Place Market with busker Emery Carl. Thanks to @olyvian for sharing her fave Market photo with us for the #mycharmstory contest. Contest runs thru 11/30. Share your pics, use #mycharmstory and you’ll be entered to win a #marketcharm! Go to PikeUp.org if you want one now.

Find Your Way Busker Documentary, Sept. 11 & Pike Place Market Busker Festival, Sept. 14

Pike Place Market is home to one of the most diverse and talented busking communities in the country, with more than 300 buskers performing at the Market every year! 

This month, Seattle’s buskers and those who love street music, celebrate the 40th anniversary of the legalization of busking in the city. 

The Pike Place Market Busker Festival on Sunday, September 14, will feature four stages with music, magic, dance, balloons, hula hoops and other performances. Performers include Howlin’ Hobbit, Jim Page, Artis the Spoonman, Emery Carl, and many more. 

The documentary film, Find Your Way, will be shown at SIFF on Sept. 11 and features Market buskers Whitney Mongé, Emery Carl, Gregory Paul and Ronn Benway.

Filmed over the course of three years, the documentary also features 90’s rocker Chris Ballew of The Presidents of the United States of America and violin virtuoso Joshua Bell. The hour and a half journey will make you think twice about who you’re passing on the street.