Brandon Miller | From High School Gigs to World Tours
In this episode of the Gigso Podcast, host Chad Bourquin interviews musician Brandon Miller, who shares his journey in the music industry, including his recent travels, album success, and the importance of mentorship. Brandon discusses the impact of his early experiences, the significance of supporting the next generation of musicians, and the various paths to success in the music world. He reflects on the energy of live performances, the dynamics of working with his wife in music, and his future plans, emphasizing the importance of defining one's own success in the industry.
takeaways
takeaways
- Brandon Miller has been able to pursue music full-time without a traditional job.
- His latest album, 'The Love U Bleed,' received great reviews and success.
- Traveling to Italy for a festival was a highlight, despite the short stay.
- Early experiences in high school shaped his understanding of the music business.
- Mentorship and community support have been crucial in his career.
- He emphasizes the importance of preparing for gigs and being professional.
- Brandon is passionate about inspiring the next generation of musicians.
- He believes in defining success on one's own terms in the music industry.
- Live performances are about connecting with the audience and the energy of the moment.
- Brandon's future plans include new music and tours in the UK and Europe.
Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Brandon Miller
Introduction to Brandon Miller
01:00
Touring and Recent Experiences
Touring and Recent Experiences
03:00
Early Musical Influences and Support Systems
Early Musical Influences and Support Systems
06:08
Mentorship and Community Impact
Mentorship and Community Impact
09:57
The Importance of Jamming and Learning
The Importance of Jamming and Learning
12:22
Defining Success in Music
Defining Success in Music
14:40
The Role of Confidence on Stage
The Role of Confidence on Stage
17:28
Energy and Connection with the Audience
Energy and Connection with the Audience
20:22
Transitioning Between Roles in Music
Transitioning Between Roles in Music
24:17
Navigating Relationships in Music
Navigating Relationships in Music
28:07
Reflections on Original Music vs. Covers
Reflections on Original Music vs. Covers
31:51
Defining Your Own Success
Defining Your Own Success
35:15
Upcoming Projects and Tours
Upcoming Projects and Tours
Creators and Guests
Guest
Brandon Miller
Brandon Miller isn’t the typical product of the small, Midwest town of Gardner, KS. From beginning to play at the age of 7, Miller always knew it was going to music that would be his driving force in life. “I’ve always wanted to play guitar, but seeing bands like Rush, Aerosmith and KISS up close gave me the thought of ‘the sky is the limit.’ I saw Kenny Wayne Shepherd when I was 17 and really saw that people wanted to watch him play guitar. That’s exactly what I wanted to do. The guitar is a special instrument that connects with people. I want to connect with people through my guitar playing.” Throughout his years of studying music formally, educationally, and experimentally through high school and into college, Miller also had a desire to write original music. “The song always comes first. That gives you the connection with the listener. You can take the journey together. With my music, I want it to give people the opportunity to relate someway. Whether that’s through pain, sorrow, anger or happiness, it gives them a way to release their emotions. We can succeed and fail together.” With musical influences such as Eric Clapton, Jimmy Page, Warren Haynes and Joe Bonamassa, he says “they are all extremely talented at their instrument, Warren and Clapton are incredible songwriters.” Miller truly holds his own candle among the few able to truly speak through his instrument and is impossible to be stylistically confined to Rock, Country, Roots, Americana. “Living in the moment and connecting with the audience. If you can’t connect with the audience at a show, what’s the point in having a show? You have to be able to take them to a place to forget about what is happening in their life. I want them to hear great songs and walk away from a great guitar show.”
