5 Facts About the Recording of For Emma, Forever Ago

Justin Vernon recorded the album alone in his father’s hunting cabin. The cabin is located northwest of Eau Claire, Wisconsin.

The recording took place over the winter of 2006-2007. Vernon isolated himself there for several months.

He handled every instrument and vocal part himself. No other musicians or producers were involved in the sessions.

The cabin had no running water or electricity. Vernon used a generator and wood stove to survive and record.

The album was originally self-released before gaining wider attention. Vernon burned CDs and sold them at local shows.