BIO
Born in Auburn, Alabama, Ernie Rowell grew up in the nearby small town of Loachapoka, Alabama, where he attended Elementary School before finishing high school back in Auburn. Then, he attended Auburn University, where he received a Bachelor’s Degree in Education., before moving directly to Nashville upon graduation.
Ernie started singing with his father’s country band at age 12 and continued through his high school and college years, picking up playing bass at age 15, as well as song-writing. He had already developed a deep love for county music when he first traveled to Nashville to do some recording at age 15. That trip cemented his desires to live in Nashville and pursue music as a profession.
Ernie was in Nashville about 6 months before landing his first job in music, playing bass and singing with Grand Ole Opry Star Stonewall Jackson. Over the next 15 years, Ernie would play in road bands with country greats Melba Montgomery, George Jones, Ray Price and Mel Tillis. After a few years in Nashville, Ernie’s songs began to be recorded by several country music stars, including Kenny Rogers, George Jones, Gene Watson, Mel Tillis, Johnny Paycheck, Roy Clark, and Ricky van Shelton.
After his time on the road, Ernie was tapped to run Mel Tillis’ publishing companies, which he did for four and a half years, before Mel sold them to support his business interests in Branson, MO. Since, he has operated his own publishing entities for several years, now adding studio ownership and production to his resume. Ernie served as adjunct professor at Belmont University for 5 years, teaching a couple of Music Publishing classes each semester.
Ernie has recorded and released two CD projects to Christian Country Radio, garnering 7 straight #1’s in the CCRB Charts, which is now Christian Music Weekly. He continues to write and record his music today, both Country and Christian Country Music.
Ernie now offers his services as record producer to artists seeking wise counsel about the music business and its many aspects. If you’re considering recording in Nashville, contact him through this site for appointment details. His knowledge of the music business will serve you well!