Rhonda Hart just comes across as someone you want to be friends with. She grew up in a musical family, starting in Oregon before moving to Nashville in the 80s and 90s with her mom and stepfather, Tommy Collins. She credits him with influencing her music, which makes sense since he is in the Nashville Songwriter Hall of Fame. There, Rhonda wrote songs and played in an all-girl band that included Deana Carter.  Following in her stepdad’s footsteps, she and Deana co-wrote Did I Shave My Legs For This? The song was recorded by Deana Carter and reached #25 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart.  

In 1998, Rhonda and Deana were nominated for two Grammy Awards, Song of the Year and Performance of the Year. The hit was reissued on its 25th anniversary in 2021 with guest appearances by Sara Evans, Lauren Alaina, Martina McBryde, Ashley McBryde, Terri Clark, and Vince Gill on lead guitar. The song hit Multi-platinum Plaque status and has sold over 6 million copies so far.  

Tired of being on the road all the time, Rhonda moved to the Gulf Shores area in 2008 after a friend suggested: “Come on down to the beach.” As a songwriter, she was familiar with the Frank Brown Songwriters International Festival held at the Flora-Bama each year and has been involved ever since. She credits the late Joe Gilchrist, founder, and co-owner of the Flora-Bama with keeping her here. When asked what she likes about the Scenic 98 Coastal area, she said, “The community spirit, the love of music, and how giving the people in the area are. Joe had that spirit, and it resonates.”

Rhonda plays at least five days a week, sometimes more. She plays with her band, The Rhonda Hart Band, and with other musicians throughout the week. She’s played the main room at the Flora-Bama every Wednesday night from 6 pm to 10 pm for over ten years. Other nights you might find her at The Front Porch in Lillian on Tuesdays with Elaine Petty, or at the Purple Parrot or the Flora-Bama Yacht Club.  

Thursdays Rhonda plays with Smokin Elvis’ at Fresh off the Boat or with the Smokey Otis Band at the SanBar Courtyard, both at SanRoc Cay Marina. You can also find her playing with the Hartstrings, a three-piece band, at the Point Restaurant and the Perdido Key Sports Bar and the Perdido Key Sports Bar, and various venues along Pensacola Beach.  

You can tell Rhonda loves what she does. Her bright spirit and infectious personality draw you in but it’s her voice that keeps you enthralled. She’s a true talent and terrifically entertaining.

Check out RhondaHartMusic.com

People Magazine  

‍