Bryan Art, fresh voice for traditional music

His name aptly describes him and his unique style of music. Bryan Art, the multifaceted, husky-voiced singer, witty songwriter and consummate musician, delivers with passion, meaning and message.

Born in St Ann, Jamaica, Bryan Grant (real name), who was formerly Brahyhan Art, recalls playing the guitar before the tender age of eight. His keen interest in music was inspired by his eldest brother, a recording artiste known as Ray Grant.

However, it was his mother who taught him the first three primary chords on which he would improvise for the next few years.

During Art's early teens, the guitar became secondary until years later when he began practising for a college entry audition. He majored in guitar (Caribbean, Latin, American and jazz studies) while he attended the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts. While in school, Art was discovered by George Miller, who gave him his first big break as a guitarist. Art was given the opportunity to tour as a member of the Fire House Band (Luciano's backing band at the time).

After the immeasurable experience of touring with Luciano, Art also toured with with Mikey General and Sizzla for years, and later with Bushman as band leader and guitarist of his Grass Roots Band.

When he wasn't touring, Art was either teaching music in two local schools or pursuing his long-time dream of singing. He also wrote songs for artistes such as George Nooks, Singing Melody, Bushman, and Luciano.

Devoted singer

Today, devoted to his singing career, The Best New Artiste for the year 2002 (by ER TVJ) has done splendidly on many major shows, including Rebel Salute on repeated occasions, Appleton Temptation Isle, Fully Loaded, St Mary Mi Come From, Unity Splash, among others. His international appearances include an extensive tour of the United States and Canada.

Representing a new generation of reggae that keeps in the tradition of crooners who came before him and who inspire him, including the likes of Dennis Brown, Beres Hammond, and Toots Hibbert to name a few, Art continues to bring a fresh voice to the genre.

He is currently being managed by Swing Sang Promotions.