Gary Patrick. (Contributed Photo)

East Texas native Gary Patrick released his sixth studio album, “High to Ride,” in September.

“I’m not a newcomer to being an artist, but I have to say that my sixth album feels more like a debut album than anything,” Patrick said. “I feel closer to this is who I am as an artist than anything else I’ve created.”

Americana artist Patrick released his first album in 1995, pouring his first love, heartbreak and tragedies into the music. His latest album has more life experience behind it. He said, “I feel like I have some concrete to stand on when I tell the story.”

From start to finish, the album feels cohesive, Patrick said.

“We all get stuck, and when you would do anything to get a different perspective on life, and you needed something to lift you up, whether it be spiritual, or…a different view, you need a new high to ride,” Patrick said. “It’s about coming out of the darkness and realizing that you have whatever you need inside of you already.”

He said the music encompasses aspects of rock’ n’ roll, country and folk. He hopes to reach everyone, not just fans of a particular genre.

“I try to reach people on as many levels as I can,” Patrick said.

Patrick was born in Tyler. According to his website, his parents raised him in a “house full of music.” They nurtured music in his life and went above and beyond to support his career.

After high school, he moved to Southern California, briefly explored aeronautical engineering, then pivoted to pursue his passion for music. He performed in bars along the Orange County coastline before he joined the Wilson Sisters for TV appearances and radio tours nationwide.

Concurrently, he recorded his debut album, “Fish Fry.”

Later, he led a house band at Mirage and Bellagio Casinos in Las Vegas for over seven years. It was an experience he contributed to a lot of his development as a musician, person and leader.

“I’ve been a professional musician for 35 years. It’s not easy. It’s not easy to sustain,” Patrick said. “You have to be good not only at your craft but just as a human.”

People can stream the album on Spotify, YouTube and iTunes or for more information, visit his website at garypatrick.love.

“Music is the language of your emotions,” Patrick said. “Someone’s character is expressed through their music, and that’s the beauty of it.”