In this intergenerational conversation, Grammy-nominated musician and composer Brandon Bush joins the show to reflect on his dynamic, genre-spanning music career. From touring globally with Train and Sugarland to scoring theater and podcasts, Brandon shares how a childhood performance before Dolly Parton sparked a lifelong pursuit of musical storytelling and artistic success.
The episode explores how music creation, performance, and production have evolved, while also diving into the emotional and technical craft behind live shows, session recording, and musical theater.
Brandon also offers a behind the scenes story of the production of a chart-topping woman country artist—whose discretion and humility are a contrast with her musical “girls rule” story narrative, the unique creative synergy he shares with his brother Kristian Bush, and how field recording in nature transformed his relationship with sound. Grounded, generous, and deeply insightful, Brandon speaks candidly about staying creative, protecting well-being, and building a meaningful artistic life.
Key Highlights from the Episode
- From Suzuki to Stadiums: Brandon recalls his earliest musical memory—sharing a stage with Dolly Parton at just 4 years old—and how it shaped his lifelong path in music.
- How He Joined Train: A chance studio connection led to a last-minute call-up that became a years-long touring and recording gig with Train.
- Session Life Explained: Brandon demystifies the role of session musicians, producers, and the behind-the-scenes process of recording hit songs—down to how long a track actually takes to capture.
- Scoring Nature: Grief led Brandon to explore field recording and composing from natural soundscapes, culminating in his meditative project Sitka.
- From Fog Machines to Footlights: His transition into musical theater unlocked a new creative layer, where subtle emotional cues replaced bombastic stage effects.
- The Rise to Stardom, how one of his unpaid interns became a chart-topping artist—and why emotional intelligence played a key role.
- Working with Family: Brandon opens up about his creative relationship with his brother Kristian Bush, the push-pull of sibling collaboration, and how they divide dreaming and doing.
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