Country artist Robby Johnson has been on a remarkable journey through life and music, overcoming personal challenges to craft songs that resonate deeply with his fans. In his latest release, “Road I’m On,” Robby captures the essence of his own story through poignant lyrics and a simple, yet powerful music video.
In this exclusive interview, Robby shares the inspiration behind his song, the process that led to his career in country music, and the personal moments that fuel his songwriting. He also gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming projects, including an exciting deluxe album set for release in 2025.
Q: How did you come up with the video concept for “Road I’m On”?
A: We wanted the song and lyrics to be the centerpiece of the music video, so we chose a simple concept that captures the song’s main theme which is me on the road singing and sharing this pain I have inside.
Q: What was the inspiration behind the song?
A: The song was inspired by my deeply personal experience of being abandoned by my father at age 5 – an event that left a profound mark on my life. Whatever I do, I will carry that weight with me for the rest of my life. The worst part is knowing that many people have been through even worse events than mine. I hope that people will find their personal story through their interpretation of the lyrics and find some kind of healing.
Q: Before you started in country music, you received a paid demo session as a Christmas present. Tell us about that experience and how it launched your career.
A: The year was 2011 when I received what I like to call “the worst Christmas gift ever.” Back then, although I would write songs and sing all the time, I didn’t consider myself an artist or a singer. I was busy raising my family and working as a sales rep on the road. I wasn’t thrilled about going to the studio, and I wasn’t going there to start a career or record a hit song. However, as soon as I started singing my original country rock song “I’ll Be There, Rockin’ & Rollin'” to the musicians, they interrupted me and said that I should move to Nashville, that I had what it takes to make it. I also felt at peace with myself in the studio and realized that I could possibly bring something good to the world and leave a mark. I grew up believing I would accomplish great things but had never figured out how I would do so until that day.
Q: How has your songwriting process evolved over the years?
A: Over the years, I’ve learned to trust my gut instinct and not question the ideas and words that naturally flow when I sit down to write. I’ve also stopped imposing a narrative on myself beforehand, allowing my subconscious mind to participate in the process. I simply let the song be what it wants to be. It often feels as if I didn’t actually write the songs, which is a strange sensation.
Q: As we approach the holiday season, I wanted to ask about a song you recorded last year. “Oh, Santa, Please” is an original Christmas song. What led you to create and record it?
A: I wasn’t planning on writing, producing, or releasing a Christmas song, but one night, I went to bed thinking that I had let my family down because I still hadn’t written a life-changing song after 10 years in Nashville and asking them for all the sacrifices that entails. The following morning, I woke up with a Christmas melody in my head and the first line of the song: “You that I’ve been waiting.” I wrote the rest of the song in a flash but struggled with the chorus. After producing the track, I realized the song was just okay and didn’t feel as if it was meant to be. Again, I went to bed upset and, believe it or not, I woke up singing a new chorus and hook that totally transformed the song and gave it a new meaning—or should I say, the correct meaning—to its verses. In the end, it feels as if the song was gifted to me and that I can’t take much credit for it.
Q: Do you have any upcoming projects or plans you’d like to share?
A: I’m working on a deluxe album that I plan to release at the beginning of 2025. It will feature my most recent releases, possibly some greatest hits, and new original songs I’ve been working on in recent months and will continue to develop in the months ahead. I’m also looking forward to getting back on the road to create memorable moments with fans.
Robby Johnson’s music reflects a deep well of personal experience and a passion for storytelling that connects with his audience on a profound level. Whether through his heartfelt lyrics or his ever-evolving songwriting process, Robby continues to carve out a place for himself in the country music world. As he gears up for the release of his upcoming deluxe album and looks ahead to more performances, Robby’s journey is just beginning, and his fans are sure to be along for the ride. Stay tuned for more from this talented artist—his story is far from over. For more information, visit https://www.robby-johnson.com/.
