A Loyal Friend with a Song to Sing: Robert Ross on Grit, Gratitude, and the Real Stories Behind the Music

Behind the weathered voice and everyman swagger of country artist Robert Ross is a life lived with intention, grit, and grace. In his latest single, “People Like Me,” Ross tips his hat to the blue-collar backbone of everyday life—soldiers, laborers, and hard-working souls who keep the world turning with calloused hands and unwavering hearts. But this isn’t just a tribute song. It’s a mirror. In this revealing conversation, Ross opens up about his years in construction, his time in the Canadian Army, and how he’s managed to stay rooted in honesty while navigating an industry built on image. With faith as his compass and family as his anchor, Robert Ross isn’t chasing fame—he’s chasing connection.

Robert, you’ve written a song called “People Like Me,” but who exactly is Robert Ross? When the spotlight fades and the stage is quiet, who are you at your core?

At the core, I’m just like that the song People like me” reflects, hardworking, passionate people who are willing to work hard, who are willing to sacrifice but at the end of a day, can kick back and enjoy and celebrate life and all that it offers. I am grateful everyday for what God has given me and the opportunities I have been given.

This song is a toast to the everyday heroes—the hard workers, the soldiers, the ones who keep this country moving. Was there someone in your life who taught you the value of that kind of grit and integrity?

I worked in the construction industry for a number of years so I know what all those hard working folks go through. I’m also ex-serviceman myself who served over 11years in the Canadian Army. I have the utmost respect for the service personnel in America and how this country celebrates and honors that service every day. I am proud to raise a glass to each and everyone them!

You sing, “We like to drink,” with such pride and spirit. But what’s the deeper story behind that lyric? Is it more about the drink—or the people you share it with?

The people I share it with. Again, it is about enjoying life’s pleasures at the end of a hard day of work and showing your appreciation for the friends and family in your life. 

In your journey as a country artist, have you ever felt pressure to be someone you’re not? How do you stay true to your roots in an industry that often asks for compromise?

I am very fortunate that I have been able to stay true to my roots as I believe in the music and stories I am singing as they are about my life and the journeys I have been on. I sing my life through my music and I have found some great producers to work with that share my vision and allow me to make the music that is true to my soul. 

You pay tribute to those in uniform in this song. Was there a personal connection to the military that inspired that verse?

Yes, as I stated before I serviced for over 11 years in the Canadian Army in Canada and overseas. Those experiences have shaped me into the person I am today, and it is my way of giving back to the people who have protected us then and now.

Country music has always been about storytelling. When did you first realize that your story had a place in this genre—that your voice mattered?

I’ve known from a very young age that I was rooted in country music. Just listening to the country greats on the radio and what they were singing about. It was life and songs that people could relate to. That is what I carry over into my songs. My story is no different than anyone else it’s just told in a different way, my way.

Your last single, “Better With Time,” touched a chord with fans. What do you think it is about your music that connects so deeply with people?

The song is written about aging graciously with time and is a ballad to my partner.  It’s about realising that the lines on your face are not something to be erased but cherished just like a good, fine wine.  The years teach you so much and as we grow older this is who we are, and it is about accepting that fact! You can’t change it so enjoy every moment getting older offers. It is also about pursuing your dreams no matter what age you are as you might just be getting better as time goes on. 

Robert, when you look back at the life you’ve lived and the music you’ve made—what’s the one thing you hope people remember about you?

I hope people enjoy my songs and hope that some or all will reach someone in a way that they can relate to or possibly help them in some way. As for what I want to be remembered for: I hope that people remember me as a loving, good, honest, caring, giving, God fearing man and a loyal friend. Can’t ask for much more than that.