There are only a handful of artists who can speak to the moment just before their star starts to rise. Is it the fulfilling spectacle of years of hard work culminating in a dream come true, or simply a reminder that the journey is just beginning? Does a musician even sense that stardom is around the corner, or is this intangible moment just that, a fleeting second drowned out by the noise of career and everyday life? These are the types of questions one could point toward John-Robert, the child prodigy with a prolific release schedule and the ability to make his soulful folk-rock feel intimate, made for the exact moment it hits your ears.
The Virginia-born singer/songwriter/guitarist has been making a name for himself since he made his TV debut at 13 years old, but the story of the John-Robert we see before us began in 2020 with the release of singles like “Urs” and “Pelican.” After a stint in Los Angeles, which produced several more EPs and singles, John-Robert returned to his beloved Virginia to record his 2025 Cross Stitch EP. All of these moments led to John-Robert being a name to remember in a burgeoning contemporary folk scene, and the artist isn’t letting a second of your attention slip through his fingers.
Today, Glide is proud to premiere “Anna,” (below) the latest single from John-Robert. This moving, almost-jazzy, guitar-driven ballad marks the artist’s first release of 2026. “Anna” is an emotionally blunt yet musically poetic performance highlighted by John-Robert’s silky vocals cascading around glistening, unassuming guitar riffs. The video, recorded live at Dynamic Arts North in Los Angeles, emphasizes the quaintness of “Anna,” despite the heavy emotions and soaring vocals. There is a vulnerability in “Anna” that brings the otherworldly elements of the performance down to eye level, creating a relatable song from a promising young act. While the silky smooth stylings of John Mayer often come to mind here, John-Robert sets himself apart with a penchant for dynamic guitar-based rock in the vein of Sam Fender.
With the release of “Anna,” John-Robert’s 2026 is officially underway. John-Robert is set to perform at three sold-out shows supporting Buffalo Traffic Jam, with two in Denver and one in Fort Collins. The artist is also preparing for headlining dates in 2026. You can keep track of where John-Robert will be here: https://www.johnrobert.us/tour
