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. Thus he was introduced to criticism and disappointment early in his endeavor. Nevertheless, Brady heard a guitar player that would motivate him to push all that aside and re-energrize 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.
Brady has a wide range of experience in the music business. His experience ranges from the Pittsburgh rock scene to national tours. He has worked as a Pittsburgh session guitarist, Worship leader, and guitarist at several mega churches. He has also taught guitar at clinics and universities.
In this interview spotlight, I chat with Brady Novotny about his latest project, technology, challenges and more.
Full Q&A along with links and music below.
Where are you from and what style of music do you create? (In your own words, not necessarily in marketing terms or by popular genre
classifications.)
I live in Pittsburgh, PA. I guess if I had to put into my own words, I try my best to create a story in my songs. Considering I am primarily a guitar instrumentalist, that’s not always easy to do. I try not to play notes just to play them. I really try to create a melodic story in each song and title it accordingly. I tend to think about the instrumentation when conveying the mood. I typically go between Electric guitar and Nylon String guitar to really capture the emotions within the song/story. I often use harmonies and/or counter melodies to add drama to the song. But melody will always be the main actor in my songs.
What led you down this path of music and what motivates you to keep
going?
I’ve always loved music. Music was a big part of my family, though I am the only one who plays an instrument. My parents would always be listening to music either at home or in the car. One day I heard the song “Crazy Train” by Ozzy, and from that point on I was determined to play the guitar.
I believe a part of my calling in life is to create and play music. I have played the guitar almost my entire life, and to stop would feel like a part of me died. So I feel it’s the call of music that keeps me motivated.
How is this new release different than previous ones? Were you trying to accomplish anything specific?
The album Passions Collide is actually my debut release. I set out to create music that combined Rock guitar with the sounds of Flamenco guitar. Those two genres of music have always been passions of mine, hence the name of the record, Passions Collide.
Name one or two challenges you face as an indie musician in this
oversaturated, digital music age? How has technology helped you (since we know it does help)?
My biggest challenges are:
1. How to stand out and be heard.
2. How to continue to be educated on all the latest, ever-changing technological platforms.
Technology has made it possible for my music to go around the world, basically at the push of a button. It’s amazing to see how far one’s reach goes via streaming or YouTube. Facebook and Instagram are great avenues to interact with fans and promote new material.
What was the last song you listened to?
I Wonder As I Wander by Lindsey Stirling.
Which do you prefer? Vinyl? CDs? MP3s?
I am a fan of CDs but I did grow up on Vinyl.
How about this one…. Do you prefer Spotify? Apple Music? Bandcamp? Or something else? Why?
Spotify is the main streaming outlet for my music. I have used all three though, including YouTube music. Spotify, however, is my go too.
Where is the best place to connect with you online and discover more
music?
Website: www.bradynovotny.com (All links are posted here as well)
Facebook: bradynovotnymusic
Instragram: bradynovotnyofficial
Twitter: @bradyanovotny
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/32PLYWvlNLL87sAvGFN2mU
Anything else before we sign off?
Thank you for the opportunity to share a little bit of my story. My hope is that the music will inspire listeners to pursue their own dreams and passions. If you like what you hear, please let me know.
