Meet Mark Henes

We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Mark Henes. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Mark below.

Mark, so good to have you with us today. We’ve always been impressed with folks who have a very clear sense of purpose and so maybe we can jump right in and talk about how you found your purpose?

I believe my purpose as an artist began with music. I started playing guitar at six years old and singing shortly after. Music became an inseparable part of me, and over the years, I developed an instinct for memorizing lyrics, learning songs, and expressing myself through melodies. It was never just about playing an instrument or singing—it was a deeper connection to the emotions and stories music could convey.

As I grew older, I realized that my purpose as a musician was to create, share, and connect. Music allows me to communicate feelings and experiences in ways that words alone cannot. My journey has always been about discovery—finding my voice, refining my craft, and using the power of music to inspire others. It’s not just about performing; it’s about connecting with my audience, sharing a moment, and making an impact through sound.

Through years of dedication to both guitar and vocal performance, I’ve found that my purpose is to bring people together through the universal language of music.

Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?

I’m a singer/songwriter rooted in the heart of country and Americana music. My music is deeply influenced by the timeless honky-tonk of Hank Williams, but I infuse it with the electrifying spirit of American roots music, creating a sound that blends tradition with modern energy. Whether I’m performing soulful ballads or high-energy anthems, I aim to craft songs that resonate with today’s audience, bringing a fresh twist to the Americana genre.

Professionally, I focus on creating music that tells stories and evokes emotion. My journey as a musician has been about finding my voice and sharing it with others. I’ve had the privilege of performing at various venues and collaborating with incredible artists, such as fiddler Bobby Stover, who will be joining me for an intimate performance at Crying Cat Bookstore on January 17. It’s always exciting to share my music in spaces where people can truly connect with the sound, and this event promises to be a special one.

In addition to performances, I’m constantly working on new music and projects. One of the things I’m most excited about is my upcoming shows, including a family-friendly event at Cannon Lodge in Woodbury on January 18 and a fun performance at Tennessee Brew Works in Nashville on January 31. Each performance is a chance to share my music with my fans and connect in new ways.

I’ll also be celebrating Valentine’s Day with a special show at The Pond in Franklin, where I’ll be performing with my band, The Silver Spurs. The event will feature a lively mix of rock, country, and classic hits, and it’s sure to be a memorable night.

For more updates on my music, upcoming shows, and new releases, you can visit my website at www.markhenes.com. I’m excited for the year ahead and can’t wait to see everyone at my upcoming performances!

If you had to pick three qualities that are most important to develop, which three would you say matter most?

Looking back on my journey as a musician, I’d say the three most impactful qualities that shaped my path are persistence, adaptability, and a deep love for learning.

Persistence: From a young age, I was drawn to music, and I spent countless hours practicing the guitar, memorizing lyrics, and refining my voice. The path to becoming a successful musician isn’t always easy—it’s filled with obstacles and setbacks. But I’ve always believed in pushing through those moments. If you stick with it, even when things aren’t going as planned, you’ll improve and grow. My advice to anyone just starting out is to keep showing up, even when the results aren’t immediate. It’s all part of the process.

Adaptability: The music industry is constantly changing. From the evolution of technology to shifts in musical tastes, being adaptable is crucial. I’ve had to learn how to embrace new tools, stay open to different styles, and be flexible with how I approach my career. For those starting out, I’d recommend being open to learning new skills—whether it’s marketing, recording, or experimenting with different genres. The more adaptable you are, the better equipped you’ll be to handle the changes that come your way.

Love of Learning: Music is an endless journey of discovery. Whether I’m learning a new instrument, experimenting with different sounds, or diving deeper into songwriting, I’ve always been excited by the opportunity to learn. This mindset has kept me growing as an artist and helped me stay inspired over the years. For those early in their journey, I’d encourage them to never stop learning. Whether you’re seeking out mentors, taking courses, or just listening to a wide range of music, every bit of knowledge adds to your artistry.

For anyone starting their own journey in music or any creative field, my biggest piece of advice would be to stay committed to growth and keep challenging yourself. Success doesn’t come overnight, but if you remain persistent, adaptable, and open to learning, you’ll find your own path and your voice in the process.

What was the most impactful thing your parents did for you?

The most impactful thing my parents did for me was let me explore my art. From the moment I showed an interest in music, they provided me with the tools and encouragement to dive deeper into it. They didn’t push me into any specific direction—they simply gave me the freedom to experiment and discover my own path.

Whether it was buying me my first guitar or supporting me as I started writing my own songs, they allowed me to develop my artistry on my own terms. This freedom to explore without pressure gave me the confidence to take creative risks and find my own voice. They taught me that my passion was worth pursuing, and that has been a guiding force throughout my career.

That space to grow as an artist, to try new things, and to make mistakes along the way, was priceless. It’s something I’m grateful for every day, and I hope others, especially early in their journey, can find the same kind of support and freedom to explore their own art.

Contact Info:

Image Credits

Laura Akins Photography

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