- Bryon Harris
Brady Novotny - Music Interview
Brady Novotny started playing the guitar at the age of 10. Determined to be a world class guitarist, he left his first guitar lesson with his instructor telling him basically to give it up now. Nevertheless, Brady persevered. He heard a guitar player that would motivate him to push the criticism aside and re-energize his passion to continue; that guitar player was Randy Rhoads. Brady soon fell in love with classical and melodic guitar playing. Brady practiced restlessly learning everything from classical pieces, melodic and virtuosic solos from 80's guitar heroes, to jazz fusion. He attended Berklee College of Music and even studied Flamenco guitar, while 80’s guitar shredding, and jazz music were also big influences.
His 2019 release with MTS Management Group/MTS Records is “Passions Collide”
featuring the lead single, “Redemption’s Cry.” The song, featuring a hauntingly beautiful vocal from Brady’s wife, Jennifer, charted on the Airplay Today national radio charts. The 2nd single, the title track, reached Top 5 on the iTunes sales charts, while staying on the airplay charts for several months. Brady’s latest single and video is “Ancient Romance.” Released in December 2019, the video was filmed on location in St. Augustine, Florida. It premiered on The Christian Beat. What got you into music?
When I was growing up, my family always listened to music. I had an older brother that turned me on to bands like Triumph, Rush, Ozzy and Van Halen. I started playing guitar at the age of 11. I inherited my first guitar from my uncle. From that point forward, I fell in love with playing music.
What is your favorite part about being an artist? Is it songwriting, performing, recording, something else?) Tell us why.
I guess I enjoy it all to be honest. I enjoy performing the most, but in order to perform as an artist, you have to write and record your material. Each aspect of being an artist has its challenges for sure. I am pretty sure every performer at some level is dissatisfied with some of their performances. Writing and recording has its drawbacks as well, often leaving the artist if anyone wondering if anyone will like the material. But on the positive side, it’s all very rewarding and it really causes you to grow as an artist. You really learn to live in the moment.
Can you tell us what being in the recording studio is like for you?
I really enjoy it. Unlike performance, you can really take the time to craft your music. Recording is the time to really make something come to life that has been playing in your head.
As a songwriter or musician, are there any obstacles you have had to overcome or obstacles that you are facing right now in your career?
It is important to stay focused. I often get concerned with how to rise above all the noise out there. There is so much music uploaded every day and that’s really great, but it’s easy to get lost in all the noise. I’ve found that you’ve got to continue to be you, keep your head down, and keep moving.
Who do you admire most in the music scene today and why?
Lindsey Stirling. She is an instrumental violinist, and in my opinion she has opened up the door for instrumental acts to tour on a bigger scale.
To date, what do you think your best song is? Can you describe the song for us?
I really enjoy the song “Ancient Romance”. “Ancient Romance” is an instrumental guitar song from my debut album Passions Collide. This instrumental piece was written to transport the listener to another time period. The song combines elements of melodic rock guitar with a Flamenco influenced breakdown. “Ancient Romance” has a unique, Renaissance vibe, using atmospheric guitar counter melodies with a vocal section by my wife, Jenn Novotny. The story behind the video is loosely based off the scripture Luke 15:11, The Prodigal Son. My hope is that the viewer will not only be moved by the music, but also by the ancient message of God’s love. The video was filmed at the amazing Otttis Castle in St Augustine.
Are you working on any new material right now or what's in the works for the upcoming year?
Yes, I am writing new material and will hopefully be back in the studio this summer. I am also working on a new show called The Guitar Freaks. It will feature three virtuoso's covering different styles of music. Our first show is this March.
Tell us where fans can access your music?
Check out these links:
Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram
This music review was brought to you by BWH Music Group.