Rod Abernethy is a unique blend of an authentic southern folk troubadour, master acoustic guitarist, and award-winning songwriter and composer for film, TV, and video games, and the Overall Grand Prize Winner of the 2021 International Acoustic Music Awards. In 2019, he was the Grand Prize winner of American Songwriter’s Bob Dylan Song Contest. His last album, Normal Isn’t Normal Anymore, produced by Grammy-nominated producer Neilson Hubbard (Mary Gauthier, Kim Richey, Glen Phillips), received rave reviews from No Depression, American Highways, and The Wall Street Journal and was the Top 20 CD of 2021 at No. 11 on the Folk International Folk Charts. Rod’s talents go beyond being a dynamic performer, vocalist, instrumentalist, and storyteller. He’s a prolific photographer, a sculpture artist of whimsical steampunk found-object robots, and a seasoned teacher and adjunct professor at the University of North Carolina School of the Arts in Winston-Salem, NC, where he teaches how to score video games.

White Horse Black Mountain is a beloved intimate music hall located in downtown Black Mountain, NC. With a cozy capacity of approximately 150-180 seats, this venue is celebrated as a true “listening room” where the focus is squarely on the music and the artist-audience connection. In addition to live concerts featuring genres from jazz and bluegrass to rock and Americana, 

White Horse also hosts storytelling nights, theater, poetry readings, puppetry, and community fundraisers. The venue prides itself on outstanding acoustics, comfortable seating with sofas and tables, and a friendly, inclusive atmosphere. Owned and curated by music industry veteran Bob Hinkle, White Horse Black Mountain fosters a vibrant cultural hub for Western North Carolina.

Locals regard White Horse as a unique jewel in the Black Mountain community, known for its attentive sound quality and warm, relaxed vibe. Visitors praise the venue for its diverse programming, from chamber music and bluegrass to jazz ensembles and tribute bands, ensuring there’s always something fresh to discover. The intimate setting encourages connection between performers and audiences, often leading to sold-out shows and enthusiastic repeat guests. 

The venue’s bar offers a curated selection of beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks, complementing the sophisticated yet unpretentious ambiance. Attendees highlight the venue’s commitment to supporting local art and culture as a key part of its enduring appeal.

White Horse Black Mountain

Discover Asheville, NC’s thriving live music and events scene with our expertly curated guide featuring concerts, festivals, community happenings, and more. Whether you’re searching for live shows from local bands, major concert venues, seasonal music festivals, or family-friendly events, Asheville delivers a wide array of entertainment options to suit all tastes and ages. Stay ahead with up-to-date listings on upcoming music events, cultural festivals, arts showcases, and exciting adventures in Asheville’s vibrant neighborhoods and downtown. Find the best things to do tonight and every day, making your visit or stay in Asheville unforgettable with rich experiences in music, culture, and entertainment.

Members Event featuring Rod Abernethy

The Scoop