Kat Harlton
Lead Photo: Michelle Spice
CCMA Award-winning and chart-topping Canadian country artist Chad Brownlee, recently returned with his brand new single “The Country Kind” on September 22nd via The Orchard and all streaming platforms.
The track is a captivating homage to the charm of old school country music, with a vibrant modern country twist, and is the first song from Brownlee’s forthcoming album. Produced by Dave “Dwave” Thomson (Lady A, The Washboard Union, High Valley), the song blends traditional country instrumentation with modern production and catchy hooks that draw the listener in. As the song unfolds, Brownlee’s emotive vocals shine, delivering lyrics that explore the deep connection to one’s roots.
“The Country Kind” captures the essence of a simple, peaceful life in the countryside and the enduring values that define the country way of life, and is Brownlee’s first release since 2020.
Hailing from British Columbia, Brownlee is a CCMA Award winner, JUNO nominee and has won many BC Country Music Association Awards. With over 125 million global streams and numerous gold and platinum-certified singles, he has topped the Canadian country Billboard charts multiple times and reached No.1 with his platinum-selling single, “Forever’s Gotta Start Somewhere.” Brownlee’s signature sound blends elements of pop, country, and rock, drawing equal inspiration from the classic country sounds of the 80s and the modern pop country sounds of the 2000s.
A multi-talented individual, Brownlee not only shines in the world of music but he also holds the distinction of being a former Vancouver Canucks draft pick. He is a dedicated philanthropist, and in 2021 he made his acting debut in the Canadian feature film Range Roads.
I had the opportunity to chat with Chad about his musical journey so far, his new single, and what’s next.
Kat: Can you talk about the inspiration behind your new single “That Country Kind”?
Chad: “The Country Kind” was co-written with Dave Thomson and Tina Parole over Zoom a couple years ago. It only took us a few hours to write and was one of those sessions that just flowed. By the end we knew we had created something really special. Probably the most country sounding song I’ve ever written, I wanted to touch on the simple elements of what “country” is, while adding a more traditional sound. It’s an anthem celebrating the elements and roots of country music.
Kat: What do you hope fans take from the track?
Chad: I hope they are left with a positive feeling after listening to it. That’s always my goal when creating and recording music. Make something that brings people joy. Music should raise our vibration, not lower it.
Kat: What do you find is the most challenging part of your creative process?
Chad: In a time of such fragmented attention, it’s not always easy silencing the noise of the outside world and its constant distractions, notifications and to-dos. But if I persist long enough I can invite the creative force to work through me. A force that seems to have a mind of its own. Aligning to it, and getting out of my own way, is the first and maybe most difficult step.
Kat: What has been a career highlight for you so far? What have you learned along the way?
Chad: There are honestly too many highlights to name just one. I have been beyond blessed to have been touring for the last 14 years, so each time I get to share those real life moments with people on stage, through the vibration of music, it’s a highlight for me! Don’t get raw broccoli on your pre-show rider. It will make your dressing room smell like a fart when you open the container. Your band and post show guests will thank you.
Kat: What else can fans expect from you for the balance of 2023?
Chad: A radio release and video release of “The Country Kind” is still to come as well as the roll out for single number two; a duet with a powerhouse female artist. I can’t wait for you all to hear it!!
Connect With Chad
Instagram: @chadbrownlee
Facebook: /ChadBrownleeMusic
Twitter: @ChadBrownlee
Website: https://www.chadbrownlee.com/