ABOUT

 

Robert “Rob” Bishton

I grew up in the 1960s and I have been passionate about great music and was influenced by artists such as The

Rolling Stones, The Doors, The Who, Led Zeppelin, Creedence Clearwater Revival, The Grateful Dead and Crosby, Stills & Nash. In 1972 my musical perspective shifted after hearing The Allman Brothers Band "Live at Fillmore East", which opened a deeper appreciation for American roots music and the blues. Although I am not a musician, I have always considered myself a critical listener - someone who recognizes strong songwriting, performance, and authenticity when I hear it.

 

Music Industry Experience

In the 1980s and early 1990s, I worked as a booking agent, manager and promoter, presenting national touring blues artists throughout Central New York. During that time, I became involved in the early careers of artists such as Phish and helped introduce a young Joe Bonamassa to guitarist Danny Gatton, who became an important mentor before his untimely passing in 1994. In 1992, I co-founded and launched one of the early online booking platforms, The CABB (Computer Assisted Booking Business), which connected colleges and booking agencies through digital access to artist information. Unfortunately the concept was ahead of its time, as internet adoption was still limited.

In 2005, I founded the Mohawk Valley Blues Society and served as its chairman for the first six years. The organization remains active today.

 

Songwriting – Red Barn Songwriting

More recently, my interest in songwriting was rekindled through SiriusXM’s Outlaw Country channel and artists such as Jamey Johnson, Cody Jinks, Chris Stapleton, Kaitlin Butts, and Sturgill Simpson.  Their work inspired me to pursue something I had long been interested in but never fully explored: songwriting. This led to the creation of Red Barn Songwriting, where I focus on writing and developing songs rooted in country, outlaw country, Americana, as well as blues and roots music traditions. I have written and copyrighted six original songs and am currently focused on writing new material.

 

Collaboration (co-writing)

Interested in co-writing a song or developing a musical idea?

Red Barn Songwriting welcomes inquiries from artists, songwriters, and musicians who share a passion for strong storytelling and authentic music.

Please visit the Contact page to start a conversation.