In this exclusive Indie Talk interview, we delve into the musical journey of Greg C. Brown, a dynamic composer and performer with a career marked by remarkable achievements and profound experiences. From his early inspiration at winter Nutcracker performances to sharing the stage with legends like Wolfman Jack, Brown's diverse influences and unique creative process have shaped his path. As he prepares for upcoming milestones like his Carnegie Hall debut and a tour of Japan, Brown offers insights into his artistry. Join us as we explore the world of Greg C. Brown and the passions that drive his remarkable career.
Was there something (an experience) or someone in your life that was the "catalyst" for you to start writing or performing music? Tell us about it:
Honestly, it's probably my parents taking me to see the Nutcracker every winter. Seeing the ballet with a live orchestra is such an unforgettable experience. I still catch it every chance I get.
Let's get this out of the way. What is the CRAZIEST thing that has ever happened to you in your music career?
Let's keep this G rated.....I've had quite a few. I love classic early rock and roll and actually shared the bill with Wolfman Jack in Orlando as part of a benefit concert for Hurricane Andrew relief. Not sure that is crazy but very memorable.
What has been the high point of your music path?
Hmmm, I don't really think like that. If I say "that was my high point" then that means the best is behind me and I'm not sure that is true. A few stand outs would be, performing at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Dublin Ireland or playing the Whisky a Go Go with my metal band Age of Fire. Next year I'll be performing at Carnegie Hall and doing a tour of Japan. I'm thinking those will be highlights as well. I am always challenging myself as a composer and performer.
So, how do you approach songwriting or what is your creative process like?
It depends on the inspiration. Recently, I've been writing away from my instrument to avoid tendencies and comfortable patterns. This has led me to different tonal structures and possibilities which I'm enjoying immensely. I like to perform and think of a picture in my head and try to convey that image or mood in sound.
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing Indie Artists today? Or, if you could ask the music industry to change one thing, what would it be?
Streaming services paying artists 1/3 of a cent on average per stream. In close second would be the monopoly of Ticketmaster and Live Nation. I'm glad they are under investigation. That cannot be regulated soon enough.
If you could share the stage with one other artist or band, who would it be and why? I love many types of music so this is tough. So let me list a few in each genre.
Classica l- Itzhak Perlman
Rock/Metal - too many, Overkill, John 5, Yngwie, Joe Satriani, Steve Vai.
But perhaps my favorite musician out there today is Jake Shimabukuro
Pick one song that was your greatest challenge to write. Tell us about it! Probably my work for guitar and orchestra "Alpha Centauri". It premiered at the University of Virginia in the 90s. It was a huge undertaking for me. I never wrote anything of that size orchestra before and of course had to find a balance between the orchestra and the soloist. Saying this, it is perhaps one of my favorite pieces that I've written.
For fans who have never heard your music, can you pick three words to describe it?! If three words just aren't enough..then tell us more!!
Recently in an interview the interviewer described my music as "classical fusion" and I like that a lot. As writers we are a compilation of our influences. That label fits me :)
What is your favorite part about being an artist? Is it songwriting, performing, recording, something else? Tell us why.
All of it. The cycle of writing, recording, releasing and promoting and then repeat. It's the seasons of being an artist. I love every aspect of it. Writing is such a private thing, personal and then to record and hear your vision take shape is awesome. And then to take your new music and share it in front of the audience and see how it moves them is priceless.
Okay, this a fun question. When you are not doing music, what else do you enjoy doing?
I'm a huge astronomy and space exploration nerd. There are so many amazing discoveries happening in this field, it is astonishing and the accessibility of information is incredible.
What's coming up in the future for you? The biggies are the aforementioned Carnegie Hall (Feb 17,2025) and tour of Japan June of 2025. I'm very excited for both!!!
About Greg C. Brown
Greg C. Brown is poised to make his debut at Carnegie Hall on February 17, 2025, as a highlight of their renowned Gala. This significant performance celebrates his continuous impact on the classical music scene.
Greg C. Brown earned a Master's degree in Music Composition from Vermont College of Fine Arts and a Bachelor's degree in Business, focusing on the Music Industry, from City University in Bellevue, Washington. He belongs to various prestigious organizations, such as the Guitar Foundation of America, Chamber Music America, and the Society of Composers, Inc.
Brown's compositions have been featured on TV, in films, video games, and on radio stations across the globe, and some have been transcribed into Braille. His music is available for streaming or purchase on all leading platforms, and his sheet music can be acquired from Les Productions D’Oz and J.W. Pepper. Listen to "Venezia" on Spotify: Greg C. Brown on Spotify Watch on YouTube: Greg C. Brown YouTube Channel
For more information, visit Greg C. Brown’s website.
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