By the mid-1990s, country music was riding a wave of reinvention. Icons like Garth Brooks, Shania Twain, and Alan Jackson were redefining the genre with slick production and cross-genre appeal. But even in today’s crowded Texas country scene, Gabe Choate stands out—not just for his music, but for the unconventional path he’s taken to get here.
Born and raised in North Texas, Choate grew up surrounded by the rugged beauty and storytelling tradition of the Lone Star State. While his peers might have been cutting their teeth on Willie Nelson and Merle Haggard, Choate’s first love was rock music. Yes, the same man now drawing comparisons to George Strait and Alan Jackson spent his formative years blasting the likes of Led Zeppelin and Sound Garden. It’s a twist most country fans wouldn’t expect, and yet it speaks to the blend of authenticity and innovation that defines his career.
From Rock Roots to Country Stardom
Unlike many of his contemporaries, Gabe Choate didn’t pick up a cowboy hat and guitar with Nashville dreams in mind. His first bands were rock outfits, performing in dive bars and high school gyms across Texas.
“I was hooked on the energy,” Choate shared in a recent interview. “Rock shows were raw and wild. I think that’s where I really learned how to connect with an audience. You can’t fake it—they’ll know.”
His years in rock were more than a detour; they were foundational. Choate credits his time in the genre with shaping his songwriting, particularly his knack for crafting emotionally charged narratives. While the themes of love, heartbreak, and redemption are staples in country music, Choate’s rock background brings a depth and edge to his lyrics that’s hard to ignore.
One fan favorite, "Look at the Mess We’re In," showcases this perfectly. The song pairs toe-tapping Texas swing with an unapologetically honest story of temptation and regret. Critics have noted its blend of traditional country storytelling and modern polish, but what truly sets the track apart is Choate’s delivery—charming, playful, and raw in a way that feels uniquely his own.
The Artisan Behind the Sound
What’s perhaps even more intriguing than his genre-hopping career is the meticulous artistry behind Choate’s sound. In a music world increasingly reliant on pre-packaged instruments and cookie-cutter production, Choate is something of an outlier. He doesn’t just play guitars—he builds them.
A self-described “gearhead,” Choate spends hours crafting custom parts casters, hand-painting intricate designs on their bodies and tweaking them until they’re just right. These aren’t just instruments—they’re extensions of his personality.
“I’ve always loved the idea of making something from scratch,” Choate said. “Every guitar I build has a story, a character. It’s like putting a piece of myself into the music before I even play a note.”
But he doesn’t stop at guitars. Choate has a knack for customizing amplifiers, too. His tinkering goes beyond aesthetics; it’s about finding the perfect tone. It’s this hands-on approach that gives his music its signature warmth and richness, a sound that stands out in an increasingly digital landscape.For all his innovation, Choate is a proud student of country’s storied past. Listen closely to his music, and you’ll hear echoes of the genre’s greats. His phrasing on tracks like “Look at the Mess We’re In” draws comparisons to George Strait, while the playful charm of his delivery recalls Alan Jackson’s heyday. Yet, Choate never feels derivative. Instead, he bridges the past and present, appealing to traditionalists and new-generation fans alike.
This balancing act is no accident. “Country music has always been about storytelling,” Choate explained. “But I think the stories can evolve. They can reflect who we are now, while still respecting where we came from.”
The Road Ahead
With his blend of traditional country values, rock-and-roll sensibility, and unmatched craftsmanship, Gabe Choate is carving a unique path in the Texas country scene. His latest single, “Look at the Mess We’re In,” continues to climb the radio charts, and his live performances are becoming must-see events.
But for Choate, it’s not about chasing fame or accolades. He’s more interested in making music that matters. “At the end of the day, I just want to connect with people,” he said. “Whether it’s through a song, a live show, or even a guitar I built—I want to leave something behind that resonates.”
As country music continues to evolve, artists like Gabe Choate remind us that its heart and soul remain unchanged. It’s about authenticity, storytelling, and connection—qualities that Choate has in spades. And while his journey may have started in rock, it’s clear that he’s found his true home in the rich, dusty traditions of Texas country.
One thing’s for sure: country fans haven’t heard the last of Gabe Choate. In fact, he’s just getting started.
Be Sure to Check out his website - https://gabechoatemusic.com/home for more information on show dates.