Robert Abernathy is a name stirring the music scene from Lower Broadway Nashville to the deepest corners of Southern America. With humble roots in Gadsden, Alabama, Abernathy certainly knows the rhythm of hard work, dedication, and simple beginnings. His childhood memories speak volumes of family, southern values, Southern Gospel, and traditional country music. The ignition switch that propelled him toward his musical journey, however, came on a 1983 Christmas when he received a stereo, speakers, and Michael Jackson’s iconic album “Thriller.” Something was just different.
Abernathy poured his soul into that album, feeding off of the vibrant energy Jackson pumped into every track. It wasn’t just the tunes that drew him in; it was the enchanting narratives weaved into each song. The album went beyond just sounding good – it felt good. It served as the turning point in his life, inspiring him to create music with a similar emotional pull.
Armed with a Mickey Mouse guitar and a Mel Bay chord book, Abernathy was unstoppable. The Eagles and Alabama became his teachers, fostering his talent and taking him on a journey into music creation. His passion led to mastery, and by the time he was 16, Abernathy was not just playing music but living through it.
Today, he is not only living his dream but breathing life into Lower Broadway Nashville’s nightlife, showcasing his talent at legendary venues such as Legends Corner, The Stage, Second Fiddle, Wildhorse Saloon, Dawghouse Saloon, and Tin Roof. As the front-man for The US #1 Eagles Tribute Show, ‘Eagle Sunrise Band,’ and the ‘Alabama Tribute Show,’ ‘Alabama Sunset,’ Abernathy celebrates the joy of tribute while belting out tunes that elicit nostalgia, joy, and boundless energy.
Photo Courtesy: Robert Abernathy
His recent album, “Somewhere Around 18,” is a testament to his musical prowess and storytelling abilities. It features 18 radio-ready songs, each bearing a piece of Abernathy’s soul, woven with personal themes and narratives. Together, they paint a vivid picture of younger days, fond memories, and the sheer joy of good old-fashioned fun.
Among the tracks, ‘Heaven Has a Radio’ holds a special place in Abernathy’s heart due to its deeply personal meaning. When his grandmother passed away in 2023, she left behind an old antique radio for him. While the song originated from an idea with co-writer Paul Cofer, he has expressed how similar the story translates to his own experience with his grandmother. Not to be outdone, songs like ‘Out of the Blue,’ ‘A Little Tied Up,’ ‘Beach Looks Good on You’ and ‘Redneck Magic’ are also masterpieces that provide listeners with an immersive musical experience.
Aside from his impressive musical career, Abernathy has found joy and purpose in teaching. After a brief hiatus, he returned to the classroom and currently teaches Kindergarten through 5th-grade P.E. at a Nashville area school. “When I was young, my dream was to play on Lower Broadway. It was something I was so drawn to, and its amazing nightlife,” Abernathy recalls fondly, words that resonate in his music and his teaching style. His return to teaching is a testament to his passion for educating, influencing, and making a difference in the lives of young children.
Photo Courtesy: Robert Abernathy
Robert Abernathy’s journey is one of ambition, hard work, and a burning passion for music. As an artist and a teacher, Abernathy continues to inspire, creating experiences that speak to the soul and resonate in the heart long after the music has stopped.
For an immersive taste of Abernathy’s fresh, warm, and inviting music, head over to Spotify and listen to his new album, “Somewhere Around 18”. Or better yet, keep up with his journey on Instagram and personally experience the magic he brings to Lower Broadway Nashville.
Website: open.spotify.com/album/3IHgSlCNAjnnOHTsPbY0bf?si=PL-Gt6vtRg-lul2XF5l__g
Instagram: www.instagram.com/rabernathy/
Published by: Martin De Juan
