Bio & Press

Currently based out of North Mississippi near Memphis, Tennessee, Brian Blake is a songwriter who has been active in the Memphis-area music scene for more than 25 years. With musical influences stemming from both Texas and Tennessee, Brian writes heartfelt and thought-provoking folk, Americana, and roots music.

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In 2021, Brian was named the Songwriter of the Year by the Memphis Songwriter's Association for his song “Move on J.D.”. The song, about a homeless World War II veteran, is set in Liberty, Texas where Brian’s family has ties dating back more than 175 years. “Move on J.D.” is featured on his debut album, Book of Life, which was produced by Walt Wilkins and Ron Flynt, and released November of 2022. Book of Life debuted at #2 on the Folk Alliance International DJ Chart (November 2022) and #18 on the EuroAmericana Chart (December 2022) and was released to national and international acclaim. It was featured on several year-end "best of" lists, including Editor's Pick for #3 album of 2022 on Americana Highways.

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Along with songwriting, which has been his top musical priority in recent years, Brian has performed around Memphis since the mid-1990s. He first picked up the guitar at the age of 13 and by 17, he was turning heads and playing the blues with players 20 to 30 years his senior on Memphis’ storied Beale Street. Over the years, he’s sang and played lead guitar and bass with a number of bands in the Memphis area.

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Brian and another Memphis-based songwriter, Tony Manard, organize a Townes Van Zandt tribute show each New Year’s Day. The show has featured a number of up and coming and talented artists in the Memphis songwriting community.