Producer, songwriter, and performer Ross Flora—known for blending the golden age of rock ’n’ roll with a Southern Americana edge—unveils his first collaborative project, Part of Me, created in partnership with the world‑renowned Blackbird Studio.
Recorded inside John and Martina McBride’s legendary Nashville studio, the two‑song release—“Last Part of Me” and “Get It Right”—dives into the rich tapestry of American music. Country, roots‑rock, folk, and rural soul all find their place in this project, shaped with the help of students from The Blackbird Academy.
Each track carries its own sonic identity. “‘Last Part of Me’ is a song I wrote around the time I moved to Nashville,” Ross shares. “It’s about that moment after a breakup when the heartache begins to fade, but the pain is the only connection you still have to that person—so you hold onto it.”
Originally intended for his 2022 EP Shoulders of Giants, the songs found a new home through the opportunity to record at Blackbird. “I couldn’t be happier that they became their own project,” Ross says. “The timing was perfect.”
Ross’ musical roots run deep, shaped by the influences he grew up with—and by his father, musician Millard Flora, who joined him in the studio. “As Ross has gained life experiences, this project shows he’s more aware of the forces that got him here,” Millard says. “Those influences—spiritual, cognitive, social—are reflected in his songwriting.”
Inside Blackbird Studio, Ross and the academy’s students brought the songs to life through a hands‑on, mentor‑driven process. For student engineer Angela Gonzales, the experience was unforgettable. “Working with Ross Flora at Blackbird Studio was a dream,” she says. “The electricity between Ross, the band, and even having his father on the B3 was so special. Ross gives his heart to every show, every song, every person.”
The project also highlights the creative spark that defines The Blackbird Academy. Many of country music’s greats have recorded within its walls, and Ross now joins that lineage. “Recording these songs at Blackbird with my dad and closest friends will go down as one of the best moments of my life,” Ross reflects. “Hearing them on tape and sending them off to be released was such a weight lifted.”
Across the two singles, Ross explores new textures—including touches of R&B. “‘Get It Right’ is something I remind myself of often: if it’s worth doing, it’s worth doing right,” he says. “In the song, the character finally commits to change—no more selfish mistakes, no more bad decisions.”
Throughout his career, Ross has toured as a lead guitarist and vocalist with the Johnny T Band, opening for Love and Theft, and with Smoke n’ Guns, opening for Blackberry Smoke and Dustin Lynch. As a solo artist, he has performed more than 4,000 shows in Nashville while writing and producing his own music. His debut EP Shoulders of Giants earned attention from the Roanoke Times, spotlighting him alongside Morgan Wade as two Virginia natives making waves in Nashville.
“If you are thinking about going anywhere for an audio school, this is the place… it’s the epicenter of recording in Nashville and people from outside country music are all coming here to record as well.” — Keith Urban
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About Ross Flora
Hailing from the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, Ross Flora is a seasoned singer, guitarist, and songwriter shaped by the sounds of R&B, bluegrass, and Southern rock. His earliest musical memories include standing on a church pew beside his father, learning harmony parts with the congregation. By 12, he was playing along to Van Halen records; by his teens, he was performing across the South Atlantic.
After moving to Nashville in 2012, Ross built a loyal following as both a solo artist and touring musician. His songwriting blends bold emotional storytelling with tasteful guitar work, drawing inspiration from Gregg and Duane Allman, Chris Cornell, and Ian Thornley. As an English major, he weaves literary influences—Dickinson, Thoreau, Whitman—into his lyrics, crafting songs rooted in rural life, personal growth, and the road.
Connect with Ross Flora: Website | Facebook | Instagram | Spotify
About The Blackbird Academy — Professional School of Audio
Founded in 2013 by John and Martina McBride, The Blackbird Academy grew from the success of Blackbird Studio—established in 2002 and now one of the world’s premier recording destinations. Artists such as Taylor Swift, Jack White, The Black Keys, Rush, Keith Urban, and Queen have all recorded within its walls.
The academy was created after John noticed a gap in hands‑on studio experience among audio school graduates. With educators and engineers like Mark Rubel, Carma DiCianni, and Kevin Becka helping shape the curriculum, the program offers immersive training using Blackbird’s world‑class gear and facilities.
Its mentor‑driven approach ensures students learn directly from top engineers and award‑winning professionals, gaining real‑world experience in both studio and live sound environments.
Press Quotes
“Ross’ EP Shoulders of Giants was one that moved me personally as it just lifts the spirit. I felt honored he allowed me to be a part of the art and songs he has coming to the world next.” — Angela Gonzales
67 views“Students are going to walk in here, be excited about learning, and really learn what it takes to make a record… if I had six months to dedicate to coming to The Blackbird Academy, I would be here.” — Sheryl Crow
