Jonathan Barnett Kaye, known professionally as Jonnie Barnett, was an American musician and songwriter born on December 12, 1945, in Sumter, South Carolina. He passed away on August 18, 2002, in Nashville, Tennessee, at the age of 56 due to a stroke. Barnett's career spanned from the 1970s until his death in 2002, during which he made significant contributions to the rock and country music genres.

In the 1970s, Barnett gained recognition as an opening act for notable artists such as Tom Waits, Cheech and Chong, and Frank Zappa. He also appeared in films, including the 1975 movie "Nashville" and "Cheech and Chong's Next Movie." Barnett's songwriting prowess was evident in his composition "One Foot in the Blues," recorded by Johnny Adams, which won the Blues Song of the Year award at the 1997 W. C. Handy Blues Awards.

Barnett was also known for his storytelling. His short story "The Chain of Love" was featured in the book "Chicken Soup for the Country Soul." This story was later adapted into a song of the same name by Barnett and songwriter Rory Lee Feek. "The Chain of Love" became a Top 5 country hit for Clay Walker in 2000.

Throughout his career, Barnett was dedicated to supporting aspiring musicians, offering them opportunities to record in his studio free of charge. His legacy is marked by his contributions to music and his generosity towards emerging artists.