For the past 17 years, Brent Allen has been working in or around the Austin music scene, mostly on behalf of other musicians and songwriters through non-profit organizations like the NSAI and eventually as part of the board of directors for the Austin Songwriters Group. During that time, he was able to meet many well-known and accomplished writers and artists such as Dale Watson, Freddy Powers, Redd Volkaert and most of Asleep at The Wheel. It was through meeting these legendary acts throughout those years that he was able to secure their places on his album, "There's A Lot of Folks Like Me" released in November 2007.
From that point forward, Brent put together a band, and began a very heavy touring schedule, averaging 220 shows a year to support the album. He and his band became very well-established and logged thousands of miles on the road, making new fans at every show. They were even called one of Best in Texas magazine's "Stars on The Horizon", while San Antonio's Hangin' Tree Saloon owner John Oaks said "these guys are so good that it makes it fun just to be around them." Additionally, the single, "Day Job" was released to Texas country radio during this time, where it reached #55 on the Texas Music Chart, and the guys had 4 appearances on Fox7's "Good Day Austin" in less than 2 years!
But, due mostly in part to the downturn of the economy, things began to slow down, and the full band took a hiatus, while Brent went on to perform as a solo act around Austin.
Now, Brent is back and working vigorously to get back to that same level that he was at during the last few years. "I had so much support around me from family, friends, and fans from all over Texas as well as people I respected in the music industry, that giving up was never an option," says Brent. "It was just a matter of the right time and being ready to get back out there."
For the last several months, Brent has been building a business plan with Greg Vendetti, (owner of GV Music Enterprises), writing new songs and even getting up on stage a few times with his good friend and fellow artist, Jeremy Steding. He's also working on putting together a tour of Europe next year with Stacy Keys, a friend, promoter, and stage manager based out of Scotland. "I first came across Brent over a year ago and was struck at how passionate he is about the music he plays and plays so well! His deep resonating and soulful voice lends itself perfectly to the storytelling ballads that touch the heart, yet he can also pull you straight to the foot stomping hand clapping dance halls of Texas!"
Of the material he's been writing for the new album, you can expect it to draw from his vast musical influences like Waylon, Willie and Merle to George Strait, Radney Foster and Clint Black.
So, with new horizons and a bright future ahead of him, Brent is back and looking forward to making new friends and fans across the miles, and reconnecting with old ones.
The journey was never over – it's just a new beginning.
