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Bill Abernathy’s music has captured millions of streams and video views globally, solidifying his status as a beloved artist among music enthusiasts. His expressive voice and exceptional storytelling continue to forge a lasting bond with listeners. Bill Abernathy’s remarkable musical journey continues to defy conventions and captivate audiences worldwide. Following his 2017 breakthrough album, “Find A Way,” Abernathy has consistently delivered chart-topping hits, including the #1 Roots Music Chart single, “Goodbye Will Never Come Again,” and the national radio sensation, “Cry Wolf,” from his album “Crossing Willow Creek.” With his latest album, “More,” Abernathy has once again demonstrated his exceptional songwriting abilities. The album’s title track has achieved #1 on the UK iTunes Folk Rock Songs chart, #1 on the international Spotify chart, and #1 on the National Radio Hits AC40 chart. The latest single, “Save Your Drama for Your Momma,” continues to showcase Abernathy’s knack for blending poignant lyrics with infectious melodies.
Bill took time out from his busy schedule to answer some questions in this EXCLUSIVE one-on-one interview…
Q: Hey Bill! Welcome back, after 6 years! We’ve been covering your music all the while…Your latest single, “Save Your Drama for Your Momma,” critiques modern politics and social issues. What inspired you to write this particular song, and how did you approach blending such pointed lyrics with catchy melodies?
A: “Thanks! I appreciate the love. 6 Years really? WOW. ‘Save Your Drama for Your Momma’ was born from watching the daily circus that is politics and social media—there’s so much drama, I half expect a clown car to pull up! I wanted to capture that frustration and give folks a reason to laugh, even as they’re bobbing their heads to the beat. The approach was simple: make it relatable, make it catchy, and, most importantly, make it fun. I mean, if we’re going to deal with all this nonsense, we might as well have a good soundtrack, right? Music should make you think, but it should also make you smile and say, ‘Yeah, I needed that.’” So, as we watch the inevitable political drama play out, just remember every time something silly and childish is said, which is often, say out loud “Save Your Drama for Your Momma”. It really does help.
The music video for “Save Your Drama for Your Momma” has been described as compelling and resonant with your storytelling style. Can you share the creative process behind the video and how you aimed to visually complement the message of the song?
“Oh, making this video was like trying to herd cats! We wanted to capture the ridiculousness of today’s drama queens and kings—whether they’re politicians or just folks who love to stir the pot. I thought, ‘Why not lean into the absurdity?’ So, we threw in some over-the-top scenes that make you think, ‘Yep, I know someone like that.’ There’s a bit of tongue-in-cheek humor throughout. At one point, we even considered adding a dance-off between two politicians, but we figured we didn’t want to give anyone ideas! It’s all about holding up a mirror to the craziness while giving people a good laugh. Because let’s face it, if we can’t laugh at it, we’ll cry, right?”
You’ve been known for your exceptional storytelling and emotional delivery. How do you balance conveying personal or political messages in your music while keeping it accessible to a wide audience?
“I think of it like adding something nutritious to a smoothie—you get the good stuff without even realizing it. My goal is to wrap the more serious messages in melodies that draw people in, so they’re tapping their feet before they realize, ‘Wait a minute, did he just call out the ridiculous politicians?’ I want my music to feel like a conversation with a friend who’s not afraid to be honest. It’s all about finding that balance between delivering a message and making sure it’s enjoyable. Music should resonate emotionally, but it should also be something you look forward to listening to, again and again.”
Your 2017 album, “Find A Way,” was a breakthrough for you, and you’ve since released several chart-topping hits. How do you feel your music and songwriting have evolved from that time to your latest album, “More”?
“Since releasing *Find A Way* in 2017, I’ve felt my songwriting and musical style have matured and expanded significantly. With *MORE*, I’ve become more comfortable exploring different genres and embracing a broader range of themes. I’ve also found myself more willing to take risks, whether that’s in my lyrics, production choices, or the stories I choose to tell. While *Find A Way* was about establishing my voice, *MORE* represents a deeper, more nuanced approach to connecting with listeners. Each song is crafted to resonate not just musically but emotionally, and I feel this album is my most authentic work to date. The journey truly does keep getting better, and I’m grateful to keep growing along the way.”
“Save Your Drama for Your Momma” addresses a range of current issues, from economic struggles to environmental concerns. How important is it for you to use your platform as a musician to address such societal challenges?
“It’s incredibly important to me. Music has a unique way of cutting through the noise and reaching people on a personal level. With *Save Your Drama for Your Momma*, I wanted to touch on issues that are affecting all of us—economic struggles, environmental concerns, the constant stream of political drama. I believe that if you have a platform, you should use it to spark conversation and encourage people to think critically about what’s happening in the world. But I also want my music to be accessible and enjoyable, so I strive to balance those messages with melodies and hooks that invite listeners in. Ultimately, I hope my songs resonate and maybe even inspire a little positive change.”
You’ve had notable success in the UK, with songs from “More” topping the iTunes Folk Rock Songs chart. What do you think it is about your music that resonates with international audiences, particularly in the UK?
“I’m thrilled that folks in the UK have embraced my music! Maybe it’s because the British love a good story, and I love telling them—or maybe they just have a soft spot for a guy who calls out politicians! My songs cover universal themes like love, loss, and the occasional ‘what the heck is happening in the world?’ And let’s face it, they probably enjoy the fact that I can be a bit cheeky with my lyrics. It’s like I’m giving them a reason to raise a pint, have a laugh, and maybe think a little, too. I’m just glad they haven’t asked me to start singing in a British accent… yet!”
As both a songwriter and co-producer on your tracks, what does your creative process look like in the studio? Do you have a specific approach to crafting a song from start to finish?
“My creative process is a bit like making a stew—there’s no exact recipe, but I throw in all the good stuff and let it simmer! I always start with the lyrics; I’m a storyteller at heart, so I need the words to guide the song’s direction. Once I have the story down, I start thinking about the melody and production elements that will really bring it to life. In the studio, I work closely with my co-producers and musicians, and we’re not afraid to experiment. Sometimes that means we’re trying out different sounds, different genres, and other times it’s just me saying, ‘What if we add a mandolin right here?’ It’s a collaborative process, and I love that it’s never the same twice. My approach is simple: if it feels right, we go with it, and if it makes us laugh or think, we know we’re onto something!”
Looking ahead, what can fans expect from you in the near future? Are there any new projects, tours, or musical directions you’re excited to explore?
“Well, awards season is here, and it’s definitely keeping me busy! I’m thrilled to have a Grammy nomination for *MORE* as Best Americana Album, and over at the Josie Awards, I’ve been nominated for Male Artist of the Year, Album of the Year for *MORE*, and Male Songwriter of the Year for the work across all my entire portfolio. Plus, *Hideaway* was a finalist for Male Single of the Year at the ISSA Awards. It’s an incredibly exciting time, but that’s not slowing me down—I’m working on new music and exploring fresh sounds. There’s always something new on the horizon, so stay tuned and let’s see where this journey takes us next!”
For more info on Bill Abernathy, visit www.billabernathy.com
