Biography
While keeping one foot planted firmly in the roots of American music, singer/songwriter Brian Martin is forging a distinct path into its future as well. Blending styles of old-time country blues, juke joint boogie, and ragtime jazz with elements of folk and bluegrass, he delivers witty tales with a soulful gritty voice, resulting in music that is both unique and inviting for generations young and old.
After years of fine-tuning his songwriting and developing his finger style guitar picking, Brian began the journey of a fulltime musician in 2004. He has since gained an ever growing fan base as well as several distinctions throughout the region. In 2004 he was a finalist in the Emerging Artist Competition for the Arkansas Blues & Heritage Festival. In 2006 & 2007 he was invited to perform in the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee, one of only a handful of Arkansans' selected to perform with blues musicians from around the world. Also in 2006, he received a LAMA (Lower Arkansas Music Award) for Most Unique Performer of the year. 2008 is already off to a promising start as well. Brian and his new backing band, the Circulators, took 2nd place in this years Arkansas Times Musicians Showcase. The Circulator consist of Greg Batterton on harmonica and trumpet, Kenny Tillery on bass and guitar, and Aaron Butler on drums and percussion.
Along with many regular club shows throughout the region, Brian has performed at Riverfest, the
Arkansas Blues & Heritage Festival, the
Spa
City Blues Festival, and the Valley of the Vapors Independent Music Festival. He has supported national touring acts such as Lucero, the Holmes Brothers, and Col. Bruce Hampton.
Currently, Brian is splitting his time performing solo acoustic and with his band. Either way, night after night, he delivers heartfelt performances that keep listeners entertained and coming back for more.
