Behind every prominent artist stands a unique and passionate narrative of transformation, perseverance, and inspiration. Such is the story of Robert Abernathy, the retired teacher-turned-country music star who has left his profound mark on Nashville’s musical landscape. Abernathy, hailing from Gadsden, Alabama, recently launched his new album, “Somewhere Around 18,” an intimate embodiment of his endearing journey.
As a Southern-raised child, Abernathy’s musical environment was steeped in Southern Gospel and Traditional Country music influences. However, a significant shift in his musical preferences happened when he received a stereo with towering speakers and Michael Jackson’s Thriller record for Christmas in perhaps 1983. The sonic world of Thriller unveiled new territories of music to Abernathy, the waves of which nudged him further down the creative path. Young Abernathy memorized every lyric and chord, instinctively nurturing his inherent artistic talent.
Years passed, and Abernathy took his first steps toward becoming a self-taught musician. He dusted off an old Mickey Mouse acoustic guitar sitting in his closet and coupled it with a Mel Bay chord book. His initial learning leanings were towards iconic band songs from Alabama and The Eagles, and by the tender age of sixteen, Abernathy was able to string chords and hymns together.
Fast forward to now, and Abernathy has actualized his childhood dreams of playing shows along the humming arteries of Lower Broadway, Nashville. Abernathy’s tale offers a soul-stirring glimpse into the manifestations of the dreams that once danced in a young boy’s mind, nurtured by Michael Jackson’s songs.
While music could have been a linear journey for many, Abernathy harbors a deep love for teaching. Even after retirement, the joy of molding young minds and the magic of the classroom enticed him back to education. Abernathy is now sharing his wisdom at Symrna Primary Elementary School in Rutherford County, outside of Nashville, bringing exuberance to Kindergarten through 5th-grade physical education.
Taking a deep dive into Abernathy’s recent musical iteration, “Somewhere Around 18,” reveals an astonishing collection of songs. Borne from a couple of years collaborating with various songwriters, Abernathy found himself holding an impressive cache of more than 25 well-composed songs without a release plan. Originally considering singles or EPs, he soon recognized the collective value of his musical creations, culminating into the full-length album boasting 18 radio-ready tracks.
The album basks in public adoration, but its innate personal significance makes it even more cherished for Abernathy. Each melody and lyric tells its own tale, with tracks like “Heaven Has a Radio,” “Out of the Blue,” “A Little Tied Up,” “Beach Looks Good on You,” and “Redneck Magic” threading their narratives through his personal tapestry. However, Abernathy’s favorites to relive in a loop are the heartfelt “Heaven Has a Radio” and the others that succinctly capture the old times’ reminiscences with friends and youthful follies at 18.
Indeed, Robert Abernathy is a testament to the transformative journey from classrooms to strummings on Broadway. His passion for music and teaching is reflected not just in his albums and classrooms but across his digital presence. Connect with him on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok for a delightful blend of meaningful lyrics and toe-tapping rhythms. If you find yourself in or near Nashville, catch The Robert Abernathy Band playing at legendary venues such as Legends Corner, The Stage, Second Fiddle, Wildhorse Saloon, Dawghouse Saloon, and Tin Roof, to name a few.
Published by: Aly Cinco
