Creative Spotlight with Country/Trailer Trap Artist and Composer Blanco Brown
This week we’d like to introduce you to Country/Trailer Trap Artist and composer Blanco Brown. Blanco’s first album, Honeysuckle & Lightning Bugs came out in October 2019. In 2019, Blanco’s song “The Git Up” claimed number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. You can follow him on Instagram @blancobrown.
What is the inspiration behind becoming a creator?
My inspiration is derived from purpose. As an artist and composer, I bridge the gap in country and rap music. My genre is called Trailer Trap. I grew up in a musically inclined family. My father plays guitar and my brother Q sings. Q and I collaborate on many projects. It is momentous to share frozen memories with my brother. We make musical history together.
Can you take us through your creative process?
My creative process is very organic. I, along with my team generate ideas from scratch. I sing, compose some heartfelt verses and use my spoons to make the songs more innovative. My producers are the epitome of natural-born talent. Jay, Paul and Patrick Guitarboy are amongst the best, period. Their musical abilities are of the purest form of raw talent.
How long does it take? For me, making authentic music does not take long. I just did a song with Diane Warren and it is titled, “Never Gonna Tame You.” This record has substance and symbolizes strength. It conveys a meaningful perspective. This gives me the epitome of courage. I am still healing from a motorcycle accident; but I survived. I use my musical gifts for the greater good. The journey is complicated and tedious, but the end results are well worth the climb.
Does everything you create or work on make money?
This is a business and unless a concert or record is for charity purposes, I earn money from it. I earn money from my live performances and via record sales.
What do you think is the biggest misconception about your line of work?
So many people think that being a creator is easy. There is a great deal of sacrifice, time and effort involved. You get out of it, what you put in. This job requires the utmost of thinking and task completion. There are late nights and early mornings. I was just inducted into The Country Music Hall of Fame. Patience is a virtue but giving up is not an option. One must always practice their craft. This allows you to become better and more skilled. Success comes with an important price, and I am truly my biggest critic.
When did you first become aware of copyright and why?
I first became fully aware of music law after I was brutally ripped off and cheated. A known producer used my written works and escaped with my royalties. My career began as a songwriter. So, it’s frustrating when someone you trust is not loyal.
How has copyright infringement impacted you personally and financially?
On a personal basis, I am now extremely vigilant and cautious on every level. And, yes, infringement has impacted me financially and I had to cut so many major losses. Now, I am a rising star and my artistry is being shared with the world.
What is the best piece of advice that you would give fellow creators about copyright and how to protect themselves and their work?
Every creator must conduct their own research and always have documentation for copyrighting their works. Agreements must be signed with anyone you work with before records are released. Financial terms must be presented in advance as well. Copyright laws are imperative to survive in this world. Your work is your lifeline, so make sure to protect your legacy. I am honored to be a member of the Copyright Alliance.
Are you one of our Individual Creator Members? Participate in our Creator Spotlight series! Please email us at cawebsite@copyrightalliance.org. And if you aren’t already a member of the Alliance, you can join today by completing our Individual Creator Members membership form!