Experience the Soulful Sound of Brandy Robinson

Sara Martin
Brandy Robinson
Date of Interview: 2/20/07
After hearing Brandy Robinson sing and play, you know she's on the right record label- GuitarMama Records. That is exactly how I would describe Robinson, a mama who can belt those soulful lyrics and move you with her guitar playing. She's not only a wonderful musician, she also has a great personality. She was very encouraging when I approached her about an interview. I promise you that if you like good, funky, and full of soul music, you will love Brandy. Let's check out what she had to say.

SM- Introduce yourself....tell me the basics, who, what, where and when.

BR- Brandy Nicole Robinson born in Knoxville, TN. Moved at the age of 19 to Portland, Or then to Hawaii, then to Boston, then to Charleston, SC. Needless to say I'm not just from Knoxville. I have lived with many cultures and have grown from every experience.

SM- Wow, no wonder you're so cool! Okay, next question, describe your musical style.

BR- I would say it mixes funk, soul, hip-hop, jazz, and rock all together to form a very unique and entergetic show. I love performing live! I have played guitar for about 15 years. I learned by doing it myself and I still hardly know music theory or what chords I'm playing. I prefer it that way.

SM- That is amazing, I love your style. You know, my dad taught himself how to play the guitar and he's amazing. He couldn't read music to save his life! Anyway, next, who are your major influences?

BR- When I was young it was anything on the radio but as I grew I got into Marvin Gaye, Al Green, Joni Mitchell, Bob Marley, Ani Difranco. Mostly very soulful artists that had a positive message. I try to write very positive although sometimes not everything in your life is positive.

SM- You know, I thought of Joni Mitchell and Ani when I first heard your music. Okay, what do you do for fun?
BR- I surf, snowboard, skateboard, and wakeboard. I play with my two dogs Marley and Nesta. I LOVE to cook and make up new recipes. I always said if I wasn't on the music path I would have gone to culinary school. I love to travel and meet new people. I also help run a music venue in Knoxville, TN called the World Grotto so I always get my music fix by seeing live shows and helping to bring them to town.

SM- Very active I see! That's wonderful. Okay, since I know you're a busy lady, here's the last question.Tell me about your very first show and any funny memories you might have looking back.

BR-My first show was a music showcase/conference in Richmond, VA. I was chosen to play in a coffeehouse and looking back how much I have changed. With music you are always evolving and I'm not a coffeehouse singer/songwriter any longer. Although I love coffee ;) There are many times when I wanted to give it all up but what fun would that be!

SM- Yeah, I'm super happy you didn't give it all up!

As you can tell, this girl is genuine! She's been to many places and you can here it in her songs. I want to thank Brandy for being so kind to answer all my questions and I encourage everyone to check her out. You can see where she's going to be playing at: http://www.myspace.com/brandyrobinson

Published by Sara Martin

Sara is a graduate from Concord University who enjoys the social aspect of past events. She also adores the outdoors and loves to ride her mountain bike. Politics, environmental issues, and smiling are jus...  View profile

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