Robert Finley Biography

Robert Finley, born on February 13, 1954, is a renowned American blues and soul singer-songwriter and guitarist. His musical journey began at the age of 11 when he picked up a thrift store guitar in his hometown of Bernice, Louisiana. Gospel music played a significant role in his early development, drawing him to the front row of quartet groups to study their skilled fingers.

In 1970, Robert joined the U.S. Army with the intention of becoming a helicopter technician in Germany. However, his musical talents were quickly recognized, leading him to become a guitarist and bandleader for the army band, touring throughout Europe during his service.

Upon returning to Louisiana, Robert pursued various musical endeavors while also working as a part-time street performer and carpenter. Unfortunately, his career as a carpenter was cut short due to legal blindness, forcing him to retire.

In 2015, Robert's life took a remarkable turn when he was discovered by the Music Maker Relief Foundation, an organization that supports aging blues musicians. This encounter marked his return to the music scene, leading to tours alongside artists like Robert Lee Coleman and Alabama Slim.

Robert Finley's debut album, "Age Don't Mean a Thing," released in 2016 on Big Legal Mess Records, garnered widespread acclaim. While predominantly a blues artist, his producer Bruce Watson honed in on the soulful aspects of his music. The album, recorded in Memphis with members of the Bo-Keys, featured Finley's original compositions inspired by his life experiences and influences like James Brown, Booker T. and the MGs, and B.B. King.

Following the success of his debut, Robert teamed up with Dan Auerbach of the Black Keys to create an original soundtrack for the graphic novel "Murder Ballads." Subsequently, he released the album "Goin' Platinum!" in 2017 under Easy Eye Sound (Nonesuch Records), produced and co-written by Auerbach.

In 2019, Robert Finley showcased his talents on the fourteenth season of "America's Got Talent," reaching the live shows and singing his original song, "Get It While You Can."

In 2021, Robert released "Sharecropper's Son," a deeply autobiographical album produced by Dan Auerbach. The album delved into his upbringing on a Louisiana crop share, revealing his profound connection to his roots and musical heritage. Robert Finley's career continues to evolve, showcasing his enduring passion for blues and soul.