- Artist Name: Bradford Loomis
- Hometown: Nashville TN
What project(s) are you currently working on?
I just released (Oct. 11th) my first full-length album, called Where the Light Ends. I am touring in support of that through the spring with a couple singles coming out in November and December.
What inspired you to pursue a career in music and when did you know?
I walked away from music when my kids were born. I felt I had to chase that “real job” fallacy. We bought a house at the height of the housing market in 2007 and right after the crash, I lost my job. In an effort to fight to save our home, I started playing music to make a little more money. It didn’t work, we eventually lost the home, but music helped me cope with the loss, and my passion for writing and performing was re-ignited. After a couple years, I went full-time, and it’s become the most fulfilling thing I’ve ever done.
If you weren’t pursuing a career in music, what would you be doing for a living?
I care deeply for people and our shared need for community. I would be doing something that allowed me to care for people and help give people a sense of belonging. I’ve thought about opening a coffeehouse or perhaps starting a nonprofit.
What is your favorite downtime activity?
I love cinema, board games, nerd culture, and stimulating conversations about meaningful things.
Who is your biggest celebrity crush?
I don’t really do celebrity crushes. I’m still continually fascinated by my wife. I would love to meet Emmylou Harris and learn from her wisdom. She’s such a great writer and humanitarian!
Who is your favorite sports team(s)?
I’m from the Seattle area originally, so I would have to say the Seahawks, but man, I miss the Sonics. I’m more of a basketball fan.
What is the last movie that you watched?
“Shazam!” – it was alright. I’m more of a Marvel fan than DC.
What is the last album you listened to?
I’ve really been listening and loving two albums. Tidal Wave by Zarni De Vette and Kindness Never Quits by Kristopher James. They are both so incredible for very different reasons.
If you could only listen to one album for the rest of your life, what would it be?
That’s so difficult! Maybe A Deeper Understanding by the War On Drugs. The production is so amazing! There are so many layers. I hear something new every time. I tend to wear albums out as well, so that’s important. Or Strict Joy by the Swell Season. I love that album. One of my top five albums of all time.
What is the greatest country song of all time?
It would be easy to say “Angel of Montgomery” by John Prine, but man, “Always On My Mind” by Willie Nelson is so dang good.
What has been your favorite city/town that you’ve visited out on the road?
So many! I cherish Ludington, Michigan. Aside from being extremely beautiful, the people are so kind and graciously hospitable. I’ve really loved Appleton, Wisconsin as well, though. It’s so tough to pick just one. I’ve loved so many places I’ve been and for different reasons.
What is your favorite meal?
I would have to say Beef Stroganoff. That’s been my favorite meal since I was a child. It’s kind of a comfort food.
Who is your dream duet partner?
I would love to sing with Emmylou Harris or Brandi Carlile. Emmylou has such an iconic, legendary voice, and Brandi is such a powerhouse. Either would be amazing.
Who would you like to go on tour with?
Opening for Bruce Springsteen would be a dream come true. He is the voice of a generation and such a true poet.
What is your ultimate career goal(s)?
I am keenly aware that I am quite fortunate to be able to do what I love for a living. I want to be able to take care of my family and our future with music. And I want to write and create music that moves people, that speaks well of hope, that gives voice to the voiceless, and that matters.