Bill Abernathy is the kind of musician who sings and writes from the Soul. His creative story-telling abilities make him a pure “lyrics-first” writer. “I feel the story and lyrics talk to me and tell me what the rest of the song is supposed to sound like,” he says.
As a teen raised in Kansas, Missouri he began writing songs that were inspired by many parts of his own life. Once he became an adult, life took over and then he stopped.
“Inspiration for my music comes from a variety of the many parts of my life,” Bill says. “Sometimes life is good to you and gives you a second chance. In my youth, I walked away from music for a myriad of personal reasons. Now, I’ve been given a second chance to pursue this thing we love called music, and I am really enjoying the ride!” Bill mentioned.
His process of creativity consists of gathering inspiration from his own experiences, his family, his friends, and sometimes people he has never met. “I find it interesting and rewarding to let my imagination wander through the memory and spirit of life events and see where it takes me.” Bill says.
Artist Interview
What made you decide to jump into the music industry or music business?
Bill Abernathy (BA:) Great Question! It’s all about following your passion. I have and have always had a passion for making music. Music is a platform for me to share my thoughts, emotions, and ideas. It is perfect for me. I love storytelling and using music to share those stories with my fans. It’s really all about following your passion, and music is certainly one of mine.
What do you think makes you stand out from all the other aspiring and upcoming artists in your genre of music?
BA: A lot of grey hair? Ha-ha. I’ve been around or as we all like to say, been there done that. I think the stories I tell and the lessons I have learned along the way is something a bit different than most. One of the things I am really proud of is that I’ve never written a song with the word “truck” in it, though I drive a truck, so maybe the content of my works is a bit differentiating.
If you could collaborate with ANY artist/band… Who would you choose and why?
BA: Man, there are so many, but I am currently fascinated with the latest work from Jackson Browne. He has such a way with words. He finds such interesting ways to get his message across. I think sitting down with him would be fantastic. Of course, he is also one of my idols, so there is that. lol
Out of all the songs you’ve released, what do you think is your Best song and why?
BA: My songs are a bit like my kids, I have no real favorites. If I had to choose one that I think is most relevant for these times, I would pick “More Than Meets the Eye”. It is full of interesting observations and is really fun to play and deliver. Is it my best song? That is really for the fans to decide.
Between creating in the studio OR performing live on stage, which is your most enjoyable one and why?
BA: I am really a studio guy. I love the process of writing and recording. Finding that perfect feel for a song is sometimes a bit elusive but working with all the talented folks I get to play within the studio is really a great way to discover where each song needs to land to be the most effective. That said, there is nothing better than playing live, and seeing the audience engage and really “get” what you’re saying and doing.
What would you consider your most successful or proudest moment in your music career, so far?
BA: Having a #1 song in the country is really cool, being on all the charts is cool, seeing myself in Billboard Magazine is special, driving to a show and seeing it advertised on billboards is cool as well as hearing my stuff on the radio. All of that is really cool, but the proudest moment for me is when one of my fans tells me a song of mine has touched them in a specific way. Maybe it made them laugh, cry, reflect, or just feel better about their current situation. Those are the moments that are most special to me without a doubt.
What inspires you the most about the music industry these days?
BA: The amount of music that is out there to explore. So many artists are creating some really great music. It’s really fun and educational to just spend time listening and discovering what folks are creating and putting out there.
What kind of impact do you want to make with your music?
BA: As fans continue to hear my stuff and be influenced in some way, that is really all I could ever want. These are my stories, my life experiences, and if they can touch someone and help them along their way, then what better impact could one ask for. Of course, a Grammy would be nice…lol
Modern Soulful Music Awards 