Spotlight – Chad Brownlee

Hidden Beats

We Are Story Tellers

Spotlight – Chad Brownlee

How did you get started in music?

Well, I could go as far back as 1992 to my first piano lesson that started this whole musical journey. I remember really feeling into a song and started to cry. The power I felt within the melodies coming from the keys moved me more than anything I had felt before. Fast forward to 2009 when I released my first single to country radio; the beginning of my artist career. What started as an organic emotional connection to the frequency of music still runs through me today. So, it was the music that started me.

Do you remember the first album you bought?

Garth Brooks’s “The Hits” from A&B Sound in Kelowna. I played that record nonstop and learned every word to every song. It had a huge influence on my singing and eventually my songwriting.

Are there specific artists out there right now that helped influence your sound today?

Garth Brooks, Eddie Vedder, Jack Johnson, Kenny Chesney, Bob Marley, Rae Lamontagne, Willie Nelson, and Waylon Jennings.

You have a new release coming up called “The Country Kind”. Can you give us a little backstory about that one?

“The Country Kind” was co-written with Dave Thomson and Tina Parole over Zoom a couple of years ago. It only took us a few hours to write and was one of those sessions that just flowed. By the end, we knew we had created something really special. Probably the most country-sounding song I’ve ever written, I wanted to touch on the simple elements of what “country” is, while adding a more traditional sound. It’s an anthem celebrating the elements and roots of country music.

A lot of people are interested in the creative process an artist has when putting together a piece of work. Can you take us through yours?

Well, it’s a very organic, rewarding, wheel-spinning test of patience. Sitting (sometimes slowly pacing) long enough to get out of your own way and allow the song to work its way through you. Most times I feel like I’m simply a conduit to the creative energy source that swirls inside and around us. When a song has just been written it feels like a creative birthing process. Bringing something into the world that didn’t exist before. Like a magical musical conception. Then as we raise it from a work tape to a demo, then from a demo to a final mastered single, it’s as if we are sending one of our children off into the world. Each step of the way brings more challenges and breakthroughs which for me is rich with fulfilment. I’m happiest when I’m creating.

How has your music evolved from back in 2019 with “Forever’s Gotta Start Somewhere” and today with “The Country Kind”?

I think my music is constantly evolving as I evolve as a person. Each song. Each album. But the Country Kind is definitely unique in its more traditional country sound. Something I’m very familiar and comfortable with, as a lot of what I play in my home is more classic country on Vinyl. (Willie, Waylon, Patsy, etc.). This song stems a lot from that influence.

What do you think it takes to make a standout song these days?

I think all the elements need to be there for a successful song to be engaging and memorable. The musical tackle box of the song should be full of hooks: Melodically, lyrically, and instrumentally. Add in some solid production with a relatable message and there’s a good chance you’ll have people singing along to every word.

What’s your thoughts on the roll of social media in the digital age of music?

I think it’s beneficial on a branding and promotional level. Never before have we been able to get our music and message out quicker to more people. But it also has its pitfalls. If used for more than a tool it can have detrimental impacts on our mental health by constantly comparing ourselves to others and building addictions to certain platforms. Something that is unfortunately becoming more and more common in our society. This can have very negative effects on the creative process and our career trajectory. Best to limit ourselves but also use it intentionally and mindfully to help bring content to fans and followers who feel joy from the art we create.

What do you do outside of music to keep yourself grounded?

Nature seems to hold the most grounding medicine for me. Whether it’s a simple walk through the woods with my dog, cold plunging in the creek, or meditating in silence, it always seems to bring me back to myself and make me feel grateful.

Who plays you in the movie of your life?

Can Taylor Kitsch sing? I know he can skate…

What is something on your go to playlist that people wouldn’t expect you to listen to right now?

Michael Franti & Spearhead – Life Is Better With You

Who are some of your favorite artists that we should be listening to that might not be heard enough?

Craig Stickland, Patrick Droney, Tyler Childers

Last but not least, are you happy?

Happiest I’ve ever been! ☺

Spotlight – Chad Brownlee is a wrap. Big thanks to Chad for taking the time to chat

Check out The Country Kind and more right now!

Keep up with Chad today!

If you want your own Spotlight all you have to do is send us a message here