Robert Finley is excited to get back to work after his time on America's Got Talent.
The partially blind blues artist finished in the semifinals this season and made quite an impression on the judges. Now, he's setting up local show dates before taking off on tour in 2020, but first he'll play in El Dorado Nov. 22 before being honored at the New Orleans Saints game Nov. 24.
"I wanted to do something close so I can really thank the people that supported me locally," Finley said. "I know once I start back on tour, I don't know when I'll be able to do something locally."
Finley said he had a great experience on America's Got Talent, but he wasn't able to make any money during his time in Hollywood.
"The bills still come in," Finley said.
Finley also said the time on the show was good exposure for his daughter, who sang back up for him. He said she will accompany him on his upcoming album, which will feature the song "Finally Starting To See," which he said was written in one day specifically for the show.
Finley said he's excited to get back in the studio and on stage. He also said he's ready to play with his band again, which is made up of members from different churches around Bernice, Louisiana.
Bernice, where Finley currently lives, is about 40 minutes south of El Dorado and will honor the 65-year-old musician Nov. 30, although he isn't sure what all will happen.
Finley said his hometown, Winnsboro, named a holiday after him and gave him a key to the city.
He said the local support is what made his career possible, which is why he sticks around after shows and takes photos with fans at the grocery store.
"It gives me joy to see a happy crowd," Finley said. "When you've got so many people supporting you, it makes you want to try harder to make things happen."
Finley will perform at 8 p.m. Nov. 22 on the Griffin Restaurant stage. Tickets are $25 for general admission. Prices will go up by $5 the day of the show.
Tickets can be purchased online, in person at the MAD box office or by calling 870-444-3007.
Finley will then be honored at the Nov. 24 New Orleans Saints game as a "Peoples Health Champion," which recognizes the accomplishments made by those 65 and older. He will also play at One Eyed Jacks in New Orleans after the game.
Finley also said he will have a Christmas song on streaming platforms called "Merry Christmas" this holiday season.