At this year’s Norman Music Festival we had the opportunity to meet up with local artist Lennon Bramlett, also known as Bronte.
Lennon Bramlett is 21 years old and makes music as Bronte. Lennon first started writing and producing music when he was about 14 or 15. He first learned guitar when he was around 12 and has picked up several instruments since then. In his words “I eventually found my own sound by combining elements of organic instrumentation with electronic music.”
We asked Lennon a few questions about inspiration, his new album, and growing as an artist.
When did you first get started with music and why?
My parents were artists and musicians growing up so both visual art and music were a big part of my upbringing. I fell in love with music at a super young age because of my parents, who later forced me to take guitar lessons. I wasn't happy about it at the time but looking back it's definitely the catalyst that brought me to where I am today. Thanks mom and dad!
You’ve had other music projects in the past, what makes Bronte stand apart?
I think what makes Bronte stand apart from other projects I've been a part of is it's for the most part entirely me. All the other bands I've been a part of have created incredible experiences and memories but nothing feels as personal as the music I record alone in my bedroom.
What inspired the name Bronte, and who have been some of the biggest influences on your work?
The name is actually a pretty funny story. I was writing and recording my first album and didn't have any idea of what I wanted to call myself yet. While I was finishing up the record, I met someone and her name was Bronte. We only talked like once but I just thought she had a cool name so I stole it. Definitely my biggest inspirations are artists like Four Tet, Bonobo, Caribou, and others, but I try to listen to a little of everything. World music, jazz, hip hop and other genres are definitely massive influences on my music.
Tell us a little bit more about the cover art for your latest release, Native.
My most recent album Native was entirely inspired by home video footage my great grandparents had lying around. I wrote the record based off that footage and the entire record was a sort of love letter to my family. I was digging through a box of old photographs and that picture immediately popped out at me. I knew I wanted to use it for the art.
What are some challenges you’ve overcome in your music career?
I think some of the challenges I've faced come from the strangeness of my music. A lot of people say they "don't get it" but they like it. I think that can just come from the traditional rock and roll/country music taste of Oklahoma, but I find a lot of people really like the music I'm making and I'm extremely appreciative of that. There's a rapidly growing scene in Oklahoma and Norman for electronic artists and I think it's really cool to be a part of something like that!
What can we expect coming up from Bronte?
Currently I'm working on finishing up a couple new projects that I am super excited for! Nia Personette (Annie Oakley) and I are finishing up a record together and I am working on another album that will be out in the next couple of months.
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