Today we’d like to introduce you to Abraham Najera.
Abraham, let’s start with your story. We’d love to hear how you got started and how the journey has been so far.
My name is Abraham and I am a musician. I play multiple instruments and write and record music. I am from Costa Mesa, CA but have been in Atlanta for 10 years. I have been playing music since the age of seven when I started on the piano at church. I learned to play several more instruments until, eventually, I was teaching group and 1-1 lessons at a private music school in Tustin, CA after high school. This is when I picked up the guitar. Still, I would’ve considered the piano to be my main instrument at the time. I continued teaching for three years until I moved to Atlanta.
Once I moved to Atlanta in 2010 I started going to local open mics to sing Mexican songs on my acoustic guitar. I play all types of music – gospel, rock, R&B, funk, Top 40 – but playing music from my culture and heritage was a run release for me and got me to start meeting local musicians. Since I’ve never really been a singer myself, I made it a point to sit behind other singers, where I was more comfortable. This got me introduced to better singers and eventually led to writing music in the studio with some of Atlanta’s best local artists and my first corporate band gig. Corporate bands provide live music for public and private events, large and small. We bring the party and move the crowd. I have been able to travel all over the country and perform with amazing, award-winning professional musicians for the past five years.
Now that my wife and I have a super-energetic little boy, it’s been more interesting to see how much music influences my daily life and the impact it has on him.
Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Of course, this has not been a smooth road. The musician talent pool in Atlanta is very deep. There is always someone who plays or performs better or has more experience than you do. With so many great musicians doing great things in Atlanta, standing out can be difficult if you’re not consistently out there. You have to be self-motivated and a self-starter here; don’t ever count yourself out of an opportunity before trying. Sometimes you just have to Nike that thing and just do it.
Please tell us about your music.
I am available for all types of performances from solo instrumental, acoustic duo, studio sessions, and live band events. I’ve even stood in as a guitar-playing extra on TV. Although playing lead electric guitar on a big, loud stage is one of the most amazing experiences you can have, there’s nothing like sitting behind a singer with an acoustic guitar and a looper, MTV unplugged style… #bliss
I believe in making beautiful music. I am very flexible with the creative process and sounding good is the most important thing to me. This takes discipline and a strong voice, but also collaboration and respect for multiple perspectives. If you work with me, your performances will be awesome and you will keep calling me back.
Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
My professionalism, talent and attitude set me apart from others. I show up prepared, I play good music and have a good time doing it. I am very down to earth, witty, and musical. I am honest and can get along with most people. I’ve always been outgoing and will let you productively know my opinion. Again, I am one of the easiest people to get along with. Also, I’m told I’m hilarious…
Contact Info:
- Phone: 404-585-0656
- Email: 1guitar.abe@gmail.com
- Instagram: www.instagram.com/guitar.abe
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/guitar.abe
Image Credit:
www.instagram.com/akenn18
www.instagram.com/its_aspirational
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