The year is 2002 in Guadalajara, Mexico. A young man with a soulful calling to music steps into his first music class, guitar in hand and a mind full of song.
After the first year, the teacher tells him he should switch to martial arts.
Now, almost 20 years later, he has gone on to sing on The Voice, has played for thousands of people, and has taken the Formula One stage in Mexico City.
The story of Roberto Alejandro Fabre Palm is one of grit and gumption, showcasing the incredible feats one can achieve despite naysayers…or even yourself. Come on down as we learn how Roberto is swiftly becoming one of Austin’s shining stars.
Roberto Fabre’s Journey
Roberto’s love for music was ignited during his childhood when his mother would take him to jazz gigs at coffee shops, exposing him to the mesmerizing world of live performances. Everything clicked when Roberto discovered the blues at the age of nine during a visit to Fredericksburg, Texas. It was the iconic Putumayo Records album, “Mississippi Delta Blues,” that opened Roberto’s eyes to a whole new world of music. “It was this raw thing. After that, my life changed. I couldn’t stop hearing that album.” The soulful nature of the blues, artists like Mississippi John Hurt, John Lee Hooker, Robert Johnson, and Arthur “Big Boy” Crudup became his guiding lights, shaping his musical preferences. “After that, it was just blues. That’s all I heard.”
Growing up, Roberto’s father had a different perspective on life. “My dad and I never had a good relationship. I’ve always been the artist, a creative, and my dad is an engineer. You know, the classic story.” His father’s beliefs often led to criticism and discouragement, as he believed Roberto’s life was wasted on music. In response, Roberto quelled his musical aspirations and pursued martial arts instead.
Roberto faced the difficult reality of his parents’ divorce at 14, leaving him and his older brother to navigate life on their own. Seeking a sense of purpose, Roberto embarked to Europe and Southeast Asia, where he lived for several years. During this time, he delved into the study of spirituality, immersing himself in the teachings of Taoism and Buddhism. He also continued studying martial arts as he had for the near decade before, all the while quietly adoring the allure of the blues artists he loved. “I wanted music for my soul all the time.”
“I wanted music for my soul all the time.”
Roberto Fabre’s life took a new direction at age 20. He relocated to Tijuana, Mexico after he had a fortuitous encounter with a man who was both a martial arts master and a traditional Chinese medicine doctor. In exchange for his services, Roberto was taught ancient methods and skills. He found himself sleeping on a massage table, learning much but not feeling whole. That is when the dean of Fermatta Music Academy recognized Roberto’s potential and encouraged him to pursue a college education in music. Despite his initial reservations, Roberto decided to take the leap.
The journey was not without its challenges. Roberto struggled in his early stages, being considered the weakest musician in his class for the first three years. “I had a lot of tenacity, but it really took a toll on me because it [messed up] my self-esteem. I was always thinking I’m a [horrible] musician.” However, his love for the art kept him going.
Despite the lingering doubts instilled by his father’s critical voice, Roberto Fabre persevered in his musical journey. He began performing in local venues, accepting low-paying gigs in exchange for the chance to showcase his talent. Even in the face of adversity, difficulties, and poverty, Roberto maintained a determined mindset, telling himself that “since I had already come this far, I might as well keep going.” Amidst the challenges, he occasionally found moments of inspiration and hope, describing music as his personal drug that he needed to satisfy.
There were times when he questioned his path. “Sometimes it sucks. It feels like I’m doing it wrong. I wonder what I’m doing or why I’m doing it. But I can’t live without it.” Through relentless studying and practice, Roberto’s skills began to improve. Despite starting as the weakest musician in school, his tenacity and determination propelled him forward. Eventually, his peers and teachers recognized his talent, and he established a reputation as a skilled player. This recognition opened doors to better opportunities. He joined a band called Los Peseros, and his dream of being a nomadic musician and traveling the world started to take shape. Throughout his journey, Roberto continued to explore his unique sound, taking musical risks, and developing his own artistic identity.
Roberto’s musical journey reached new heights when he secured a spot on The Voice in Mexico, showcasing his abilities to a wider audience. Later, he found an exciting opportunity to perform with a theatrical show on the Formula One stage in Mexico City, further solidifying his presence in the music industry. Despite his initial doubts, he remained dedicated to music and continued to study and perform. He later moved to Texas to build on his musical studies and skills. While discovering his personal style, he took on various odd jobs to support himself and his musical aspirations. Eventually, he found his way to the live music capitol of the world, Austin, TX.
The challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic served as a catalyst for Roberto’s personal growth. He faced internal struggles but emerged like a phoenix rising from the ashes. “Everyone is going to talk [trash] about you all the time.” He voiced in an interview. “If you don’t create your own reality, then you’re going to let someone else’s perception of your reality and their own fears or insecurities transfer into you. The person who needs to believe in you, is you. It’s a lonely place, but it’s true. It starts with you.”
“One thing is for sure, I have to keep singing. I have to keep playing.”
Roberto has found solace in his mantra, “Ohm mane padme hum,” which reminds him to let his inner light shine. He is still exploring his identity and the direction he needs to take in his music. “That’s what I’m trying to figure out. Who am I? Where do I need to go? What do I need to play? Who is Roberto Fabre? I don’t know. I hope that the music I start developing from now on with this new, recreated version of myself is going to take me there.”
Roberto’s story serves as an inspiration for all of us, encouraging us to embrace our passions, overcome obstacles, and carve our own paths to greatness. From the jazz gigs that sparked his artistic curiosity to the profound impact of blues music and his personal journey of self-discovery, Roberto’s love for music makes any obstacle a trifle to be dealt with. “One thing is for sure, I have to keep singing. I have to keep playing.” Today, he plays in crowded venues all over the world and is working to release an original album in the near future. Roberto often plays in Austin’s most well known venues, such as The Continental Club, White Horse and various other locations. You can find Roberto’s music on Spotify and keep up with his latest events through Instagram.
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