Thomas Gabriel is an American singer and songwriter, whose music has been described as a mix of Americana/Roots with a hint of country and rock. He is the eldest grandchild of singer and actor Johnny Cash.
Biography
Thomas Gabriel was born in 1973 in Ventura, California, to Kathy Cash and Thomas Coggins. Kathy Cash is the second of four daughters Johnny Cash had with his first wife Vivian (Liberto) Cash. Kathy was 16 years old when Thomas was born.
As a child, Gabriel spent time touring with grandparents Johnny Cash and June Carter Cash (Johnny's second wife). He became interested in music at an early age, taking up guitar at age 11. Gabriel followed his grandparents in music, but also quickly started experimenting with alcohol, starting drinking at age 13. He struggled with substance abuse, as had the Cash and Carter families.
Despite Gabriel's interest in music, Johnny Cash steered him away from show business and into law enforcement. Gabriel served as a police officer for eight years before his problems with drinking and drug abuse caused him to resign. His addictions led to a lengthy arrest record, and he served a number of years in prison.
While in prison, Gabriel once again turned his attention to music. After his release, he continued work on musical projects he had started behind bars, but struggled to stay sober.
