By Jordyn Smith
Singer/songwriter Rob Baird will be debuting his new album “Wrong Side of the River” at the Grand Stafford Theater on May 13. The Memphis-born singer broke out in 2012 with the release of “I Swear It’s The Truth.” Released by Carnival Recording Company, this critically-acclaimed album gave him a loyal fan base that has grown with him, as well as a niche in the Americana genre. This album reflects many of his inspirations from Tom Petty to Texas-great Robert Earl Keen. Baird has toured with Eli Young Band, written with Scooter Carusoe, and is now back doing what he does best: playing live music in Texas.
A graduate of TCU with a degree in Entrepreneurial Management, Baird has made his mark over the past few years. The native Tennessean has been welcomed with opened arms by Texas music fans. After several years of touring, Baird took a step back to return to his Tennessee roots. In his temporary absence from touring, Baird went to Nashville and began to piece together his new record “Wrong Side of the River.” From the few tunes that are available right now, this album proves to be his most eclectic collection of songs yet.
It was important to Baird to “hit the reset button,” and figure out how he should handle his next release. With his reputation on the line, his work on “Wrong Side of the River” will no doubt be a hit for him. This passion for music and desire to keep things fresh is refreshing. In the age of keeping up with the Joneses of the music business, artists find themselves putting out records on an assembly line. With Baird’s approach, he is bucking that status quo. His attentiveness to bringing his fans the best quality of music is remarkable and can take some artists many years to figure that out, but he’s got it down before he turns thirty.
The lead single off of “Wrong Side of the River” is the funky track, “Ain’t Nobody Got A Hold of Me.” Baird’s smooth vocals and the twangy guitar bring this song out, and It is very obvious that he has some serious soul to him. The track, as described by Baird himself, is “about fighting through the darkness to find the light.” This personal touch will resonate with fans.
With the album completed, Baird knew it was time to head back to the Lonestar State. His dedication to the Texas music scene is incredible and knows this is where his fans are. He will continue to tour throughout Texas once his album is released on May 13.
Tickets can be bought $10 in advance or $12 at the door. The show kicks off at 8 p.m.
