Brad Thompson

Acoustic Guitar Rocker

When did you first get into music?

I took piano and guitar lessons at an early age. It wasn’t until I was in high school that I truly “got into” music, that’s when I started writing songs.

Who or What inspired you to pursue a career in music?

My dad shared an interesting thing with me many years ago. He explained that each generation in our family carried the dreams from the previous one, not unlike many families, I’m sure. Ours goes like this… My great, great-grandfather’s dream was to one day own some land. He didn’t, but my great-grandfather did. He was a successful dairy farmer who owned a 100 or so acres of land in North Texas. His dream was to one day leave the hard life of farming behind and move to the city and work there. He didn’t, but my grandfather did. He left the country and moved to town where he worked for the city for most of his life. He did very well working for the city but his dream was to one day own his own business. He didn’t, but my dad did. My dad ran a successful business for many years, employing hundreds of people. He played music his whole life and always said how exciting it would have been to do it for a living. He didn’t, but I did. My son is seventeen. I’m not sure if I’ve imparted any dreams to him yet, but we’ll see!

Photo by Geno Loro Jr.

How would you describe the music that you create?

It’s generally acoustic guitar-based, since I mostly write that way. Lately I’ve been enjoying weaving stories into my songs. Sometimes they’re fictional, sometimes they’re party true, maybe based on a person or people I know. I feel like they’re Sunday afternoon, driving with the top down kind of songs.

Photo by Geno Loro, Jr.

How has your music evolved since you first began playing?

I think I tried too hard early on. I thought way too much about clever lyrics and a turn of phrase, instead of just writing something that was true, honest and unique. Same with my musical approach, I spent a lot of time really diving into the complexity of it all with odd time signatures and key changes. I write a lot more simply these days and it’s so much more enjoyable.

Photo by Crystal Clear Media

I’m sure you have shared the stage with a lot of talented artists/celebrities along the way. Would you share 1 or 2 of your favorite stories with us?

I did a solo opener for the Doobie Brothers years ago at the famed Bronco Bowl in Dallas. It was a large crowd, I was an unknown and just super nervous about the whole thing. The entire band came down to my dressing room to meet me and wish me good luck. I was too starstruck to be worried any more, I just hung out with rock royalty!

Another great memory is meeting the late Chris Cornell, lead singer of Soundgarden and Audioslave. He was attending one of my shows in Nashville and was moved by a Jeff Buckley cover that I did. Jeff had just recently passed and he and Chris were very close. Chris invited me to his show in Dallas where we got to visit some more. I met his band, he signed my guitar - it was a very special night.

If you were forced to choose only one, which emotion, more than any other drives you to stay in this tough business? Is it joy, anger, desire, passion or pride and why?

I would choose passion. Nothing burns longer than passion. I’m especially aware of this during this current pandemic. I’ve had the opportunity to play some smaller shows lately, as we’re all still trying to figure out a way to do this live music thing safely, and man, I‘ve missed it!! I was reminded why I was drawn to this in the first place, it’s so powerful connecting to people on a musical level - whether it’s through a music video, large crowd or an intimate gathering.

Photo by Chuck Shanlever

Which ingredient do you think makes you special and unique as a performing artist in an industry overflowing with new faces and ideas?

It’s definitely my butt (jk). I believe my earnestness has served me well and helped me stand out. I try to do all things with conviction, it just feels right, you know?

What has been your biggest challenge as a musician/singer-songwriter? Have you been able to overcome that challenge? If so, how?

I think recognizing our true worth is a biggie for most artists and I’m no exception. Whether we’re taking about compensation, your time slot at an event, your “draw” or any other measure of success as a musical artist, it can sometimes be a bit of an uncomfortable conversation. Overcoming it, I believe, is just a daily ritual of believing in yourself and showing it.

Photo by Rachel Delira

A common phrase in the industry is, “you must suffer for your art.” Do you agree with this statement? If so, how have you suffered for your art?

I do, but I believe the word “suffer” is meant in a much broader sense. That is, your art is your priority, therefor other interests or pursuits might lack, or not be given the same amount of concern, and as a result one suffers.

How do you feel the internet has impacted the music business?

It’s made it incredibly accessible. I mean, the most obscure band is just an internet search away. And you can really deep dive into an artist like never before if you’re really into them. I do like that part.

If you could change anything about the music industry. What would it be?

I’d bring back the great songwriter era from the 70’s. Remember when they were signing James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young? Those were the biggest acts back then. They were basically songwriting royalty with just a guitar and a voice. Pretty cool.

What are the 5 albums that have helped make you the person you are today? And why?

Back in Black (AC/DC) - Played this album to death. Rock solid groove. Deja Vu (Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young) - Epic songwriting, harmonies and acoustic guitar playing. October Project (October Project) - Some of the most beautifully written songs and performances ever. Which Way To Here (Anders Osborne) - Amazing guitar player and songwriter from New Orleans. Check Your Head (Beastie Boys) - I still remember the first time I heard this album, the sounds are just so great on here! Appetite For Destruction (Guns N’ Roses) - I know this is 6 but I just can’t leave this one out - so much swagger.

5th Annual Roadhouse benefiting Ronald McDonald House Fort Worth

Photo by Glenn Wood

Tell us about your current project.

A Moment - My latest record is due out this fall. I’m in love with the songs on here and the talented people who helped me make it. I can’t wait for you to hear it!

What’s next for you?

The Pandemic has allowed me to stay at home and really hone my music video making skills. I plan on making several videos for the new record and just seeing where that goes...

How can fans-to-be gain access to your music?

https://bradthompson.com/music/