Robert "Rob" Bishton
I grew up in the 1960s and developed a lifelong passion for music shaped by artists such as The Rolling Stones, The Doors, The Who, Led Zeppelin, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Grateful Dead, and Crosby, Stills & Nash. A defining moment came in 1972 when I first heard "Live at Fillmore East" by The Allman Brothers Band, which deepened my appreciation for American roots music, blues, and improvisational performance.
Although I am not a musician, I have spent my life as a dedicated listener and active participant in the live music world, with a strong respect for songwriting, authentic performance, and the craft of live touring music.
Music Industry Experience
In the 1980s and early 1990s, I worked part-time as a booking agent, manager, and promoter throughout the Northeast, presenting touring blues and roots artists across Central New York and surrounding regions. In 1986, I opened Top Entertainment as a booking and promotion agency.
During this period, I worked within the live touring circuit and booked and promoted performances for a range of artists, including very early performances by Phish during their pre-mainstream touring years. My name is credited in the liner notes of the Phish release "A Live One" in connection with this period of work.
I also arranged performances in Boston and New York City where a young Joe Bonamassa shared the stage with guitarist Danny Gatton through Gatton's management team. Danny went on to mentor Joe in those early years.
In 1992, I co-founded The CABB (Computer Assisted Booking Business), an early digital booking concept designed to connect colleges, booking agencies, and artists during the early stages of internet-based music promotion.
In 2005, I founded the Mohawk Valley Blues Society and served as its chairman for six years, producing the organization's first CD. As chairman, I booked the artist lineups for two blues festivals, held in 2007 and 2008. The MVBS remains active today.
Currently, I am a member of the Board of Directors of Arts at the Palace and involved with the Thursdays on the Village Green concert series in Hamilton, NY.
Songwriting
In recent years, my interest in songwriting was reignited through modern outlaw country and Americana artists such as Jamey Johnson, Cody Jinks, Chris Stapleton, Kaitlin Butts, and The Red Clay Strays. This inspiration led to the creation of Red Barn Songwriting, where I focus on developing original songs rooted in country, outlaw country, Americana, blues, and American roots traditions. I have written and copyrighted eight original songs and continue to develop new material with a focus on storytelling, emotion, and authenticity.
Collaboration
Interested in co-writing or developing a musical idea?
Red Barn Songwriting welcomes collaboration with artists, writers, and musicians who value strong storytelling and authentic, roots-based music. Please visit the Contact page to start a conversation.
