High Praise for a new Kawai Artist
Singer/Songwriter and Kawai Artist, Tim Brantley, burst onto the pop music scene in a very big way last year. His debut release, “Goldtop Heights”, immediately drew high praise from music critics and industry press. Combining strong melodies and lyrics delivered with an unforgettably strong voice, Tim is already being compared to legends such as Elton John, Billy Joel and Bruce Springsteen.
Since the release of Goldtop Heights, Tim and his Kawai MP8II have crisscrossed the U.S. performing in clubs, at music festivals and on TV. Tim is also slated to perform later this year on the popular Rock Boat cruise line out of Tampa, FL.
I recently caught up with Tim to ask a few questions about his music and himself.
Your release, "Goldtop Heights", won instant critical acclaim comparing you to some of the top singer/songwriters of our time. How did all this attention make you feel?
TB - “Like maybe I'm not too crazy... It was an exciting time for me, making this record with my friends... glad it was well received but I would've been happy either way.”
Who are the artists and songwriters that have influenced you?
TB - “A lot of the music my mom played when I was a kid...Hall and Oates, Huey Lewis, Springsteen, Michael Jackson, Carole King...even some of the country stuff...Ronnie Milsap, Dolly, Alabama...we sang together a lot... I think without that, music isn't a factor in my life today...”
You're a strong singer and also a skilled piano player. Have you had formal training in either?
TB - “Not really...took some piano lessons when I was young but couldn't get through it... squirmy kid...I wanted to skip the beginner stuff and get straight to the Richard Marx, so I did.”
Your music is a great blend of strong lyrical and melodic hooks, but it also tends to tell stories. What is the source for your musical and lyrical ideas?
TB - “The magnetic pull of poverty... and girls”
Your music features piano front and center, supported by the usual rhythm section of guitar, bass and drums. But you also rely on some more unusual instruments such as cello and bells. What's your thinking on the use of these and other instruments on your recordings?
TB - “The bells- I got that one from Springsteen...it's a nice way to dress up the piano...the cello is more of a visual /live instrument to me...something you need to experience in person...never really a fan of it on a record... in person, it puts me in a mood, feels very real...”
Anticipation is high for Tim’s next release. We’ll let you know when we hear something more. In the meantime, check out Tim Brantley’s Kawai artist page by clicking here.
— Tom Love - Editor
Back to top |
Upright Pianos
