Austin Brown has carved out a space in the music industry that blends artistry, authenticity, and legacy. This year, Brown’s work has earned him three Grammy nominations, cementing his position as one of the most versatile talents in the industry. Recognized for his contributions to Tank and the Bangas’ The Heart, The Mind, The Soul (nominated for Best Spoken Word Poetry Album) and Lucky Daye’s Algorithm (nominated for Best R&B Album and Best R&B Performance), Brown is also preparing to take another significant step with his upcoming solo album, The Festival.

For Brown, these accomplishments are not just about accolades but about creating music that connects. “It’s been an honor to work on projects that push boundaries,” he reflects. “These nominations are proof that music with heart and purpose resonates with people.”

Brown’s work on The Heart, The Mind, The Soul illustrates his ability to bring spoken word poetry to life through music. Tracks like “Who Ha” featuring J. Ivy and “Is It Me You’re Calling” showcase his talent for pairing evocative lyrics with soulful, melodic arrangements. Similarly, his contributions to Lucky Daye’s Algorithm highlight his expertise in crafting lush soundscapes and emotive narratives. Songs such as “Never Leaving You Lonely,” “Soft,” and “Lemonade” have become standouts, demonstrating his ability to marry vulnerability with vibrant production.

These projects have not only earned him Grammy nominations but have also solidified his reputation as a creative powerhouse who bridges genres effortlessly.

While Brown’s collaborations have brought him widespread recognition, The Festival marks a deeply personal chapter in his artistic journey. Set for release next month, the album delves into themes of love, self-discovery, and resilience, offering listeners a glimpse into Brown’s heart and mind.

“The Festival represents where I am in life,” he explains. “It’s about celebrating every aspect of the human experience—the joy, the pain, the lessons, and the growth. I wanted this album to feel like a conversation, something raw and honest.”

Tracks such as “I Don’t Want to Let You Go” capture this ethos perfectly. With lyrics like “If the sun don’t shine tomorrow, and if you know our time is borrowed, would you be right here next to me?” Brown explores vulnerability and the courage to embrace love fully. Other songs, like “Take Care of Me,” examine human connection and the complexities of relationships, while “Destructive” highlights the duality of love and pain.

Despite his success, Brown remains deeply rooted in practices that center him. His pre-performance routine is as much about emotional preparation as it is about technical readiness. “I start with tea and honey, followed by vocal and guitar exercises to make sure I’m mentally and physically ready,” he shares.

A key element of his ritual is connecting with family. “I might be a grown-ass man, but I always call my mom and grandma before a show. Hearing their voices calms me and reminds me where I come from.” A silent prayer completes his routine, grounding him in gratitude and purpose before stepping into the spotlight.

As a lifelong student of music, Brown draws inspiration from timeless songs and groundbreaking artists. Tracks like Bittersweet Symphony by The Verve and Fly Away by Lenny Kravitz resonate with him for their emotional depth and soaring energy. He admires Uptown Funk by Bruno Mars and Mark Ronson for its flawless production and infectious groove, while Really Love by D’Angelo represents the romance and artistry he strives to bring to his own music.

Brown also praises Mutt by Leon Thomas, calling it a masterclass in modern production and vocal delivery. “Leon’s tone is sleek, and the track is just an overall groove,” he says.

Looking back on his career, Brown has gained wisdom that he would eagerly share with his younger self. “I’d tell myself that it’s a marathon, not a sprint,” he says. “Don’t compare yourself to others—focus on your own path and remember why you started in the first place. Music should always bring joy.”

Brown’s sound is a reflection of the music that shaped him. Albums like Stevie Wonder’s Innervisions, D’Angelo’s Voodoo, and Michael Jackson’s Off the Wall provided a foundation for his blend of soul, funk, and groove. “Each of these albums taught me something different about the craft,” he says. “They’re timeless because they capture real emotions and experiences.”

His love for timeless music is mirrored in his own songwriting. Tracks on The Festival tackle universal themes, inviting listeners to see themselves in his lyrics.

As Brown prepares to release The Festival and attend the Grammy Awards, he remains focused on creating music that connects. His work on The Heart, The Mind, The Soul and Algorithm demonstrates his ability to elevate collaborative projects, while The Festival represents his evolution as a solo artist.

“I’m excited for this next chapter,” he says. “Music is about connection, about making people feel seen, heard, and understood. That’s what drives me, and that’s what I want to keep doing.”