Robert Hunter is an American singer/songwriter and poet, who first gained critical acclaim following the release of his debut EP ‘Outta My Mind’, which was produced and recorded in Nashville TN. Two songs from that album (365 and Outta My Mind) achieved significant terrestrial radio airplay, which paved the way for ‘Afterglow,’ Roberts second studio album working with Nashville producer Dave Bechtel in the span of less than a year.
Afterglow features 5 songs, all written by Rob in his secluded studio, located a short drive from where he grew up in rural Danville Pennsylvania. His writing has been described as “intelligent” and “hard wiring after a single listen.”
For those who haven’t heard of Robert, or are perhaps more familiar with “the other Robert Hunter” - that’s because, like the beloved Grateful Dead lyricist, Robert is a self-described recluse, having written more than a hundred radio friendly gems over the past two decades, without seeking any recognition for his talents.
That all changed when Robert was approached by Zing Productions, and asked to perform an all original acoustic set, supporting their non-profit music education programs benefitting underprivileged children. That ‘one time’ show led to many more, including stages from Las Vegas to Unity College in Maine – all of which benefitted charities and non-profit organizations, including Zing.
Robert continues to play select venues in support of his album releases, and causes, typically drawing a loyal group of fans wherever he goes, hoping to hear some of the crazy stories, and spontaneously inspired lyrical improvisations, for which he is becoming known.
Now please read an important message from Robert:
AFTERGLOW is the name of my new EP coming out February 24.
This record means a lot to me. I lost my mind more than once writing it. This was always the excuse…one more line…one more song…one more trip to Tennessee – to quiet this need that follows me everywhere – to finish what I started, when I started writing songs such a long time ago. Oh yes, Afterglow. There is no better way to describe the feeling.
Since finishing the record, I found out that the one person who believed in me the most, as the music thing was getting going, Becky; my best friend; my chaperone in Nashville; ‘Annie’ in all my songs, and the sweetest girl I know – has cancer.
I thought hard about cancelling the release, but she wouldn’t have it. “Not when we’ve come so far.”
Ok Becky.
So I want you to know now: this means war.
Afterglow isn’t just a record, it’s the last thing we finished together- in the face of all the odds against it - before cancer became a part of our daily vocabulary. And she loves the way it turned out :)
Now I know that the odds don’t mean a thing. She used to tell me that every time I wanted to quit. “What matters,” she’d say, “is that we’re in this together, and trust me, we’re going to make it.”
Becky is the driving force behind all my songs, and the person that I am. She’s my Afterglow. It’s all intertwined. And if sharing this with the world makes her happy, then that is what I’m going to do. She is bold, tenacious, faithful, caring, courageous and kind. And I am humbled to be in her service.
And so now it’s war against cancer. And it’s war against the odds, apathy and despair – just as it’s always been. No I won’t care what the critics will have to say this time. Because we’re in this together, and that’s all that matters. The line is drawn, and we’re going to make it. And I know that if you’ll join, follow, share, send cards, or do anything you can, as I do my best, to give back all the strength she’s given, we’re going to win this one, for Becky.
Send cards to 514 N. Chestnut St, Millville PA 17846.
Buy Afterglow in stores, and online Feb 24. Presale begins Jan 6 on iTunes.
