bubbles brown

Biography

Bubbles Brown is a one-man blues band, singer-songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist originally from Florida, now based in New Orleans, Louisiana. Growing up in a musical family, he began his journey with drums and bass before moving on to guitar and other instruments, influenced by his father and sister's musical pursuits. In 2007, Brown sold all his possessions to move to Chicago, where he spent 15 years honing his craft as a street musician and busker, deeply immersing himself in the city's blues and folk scenes.

During his time in Chicago, Brown formed a significant partnership with Washboard Ben after opening for Ben's country band at a house show. The duo performed and recorded together for a decade, releasing two independent records and gaining both local and national recognition. They opened for acts such as The Doors with Robby Krieger, Lilly Mae, The Weeks, and Southern Avenue, and were selected as Musicians in Residence in Spring Green, Wisconsin. After the duo parted ways, Brown embarked on a solo career, traveling from Duluth to Miami before settling in New Orleans, where he continues to perform regularly, particularly at the Apple Barrel Bar on Frenchmen Street.

Bubbles Brown's musical style is a raw, gritty blend of blues, folk, soul, country, jazz, R&B, gospel, and Appalachian influences. His performances are characterized by a home-spun, kitchen-sink aesthetic combined with modern energy, creating a sound that is both nostalgic and progressive. Brown's unique approach and dedication to his craft have made him a respected figure in contemporary blues and roots music.

Fun Facts

• Bubbles Brown sold everything he owned in 2007 to buy a plane ticket to Chicago and pursue music full-time.
• He spent 15 years busking in Chicago's subways and streets, developing his distinctive style.
• Brown is known for his one-man band setup, simultaneously playing guitar, banjo, harmonica, and singing.
• He has opened for legendary acts including The Doors with Robby Krieger and Lilly Mae.

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Father and Sister - Family members who played music and inspired his early development (Early musical upbringing) [Childhood]

Key Collaborators

• Washboard Ben - Duo partner for a decade; co-performer and co-recording artist (Two independent records, live performances) [c. 2010–2020]
• George Ducas - Shared live performance (WDVX Blue Plate Special, 2024) (Live show) [2024]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Beehive Blues (Mt. Gilead)
2. Peru (Colombian Gold)
3. Peru (Peru)
4. Sugarcane Waltz (Sugarcane Waltz)
5. Hold Keep Rock #2 (Colombian Gold)
6. Funky Jump (Colombian Gold)
7. In My Room (Colombian Gold)
8. Dream Lover (Colombian Gold)
9. Pill for Pleasure (Colombian Gold)
10. Sugarcane Waltz (Colombian Gold)

External Links

• Spotify