BRELAND is gearing up for the fourth annual BRELAND & Friends benefit concert, set to take the stage at Nashville’s legendary Ryman Auditorium on April 22nd. This year promises another unforgettable night of music with a star-studded lineup including Jordan Davis, Graham Barham, Grace Bowers, Mackenzie Carpenter, Madeline Edwards, Tigirlily Gold, Jonathan McReynolds, Adrien Nuñez, Reyna Roberts, and more. All proceeds from the event will directly benefit the Oasis Center, a vital organization providing support to at-risk youth in Middle Tennessee.
Last year’s BRELAND & Friends concert was successful, raising over $140,000 and featuring surprise appearances from Hailey Whitters, Nelly, and Tanner Adell. Beyond his artistry, BRELAND is also a highly sought-after songwriter, having penned tracks for various artists including Chris Brown, Nelly, Jonathan McReynolds, and more. Adding another layer to his multifaceted career, BRELAND shares a close friendship with NBA star Jimmy Butler, even appearing in Butler’s Netflix documentary, ‘Starting 5.’
Ahead of this year’s highly anticipated benefit concert, we caught up with BRELAND to delve into the inspiration behind BRELAND & Friends, his diverse musical journey, and his impactful connection with the Oasis Center.
The Source: This year marks the fourth annual BRELAND & Friends benefit concert at the Ryman Auditorium. What inspired you to start this event, and how has it evolved since the first year?
I’ve always wanted my artistry to mean more than just music, so when my publisher, John Ozier, first reached out to me about doing an event for the Oasis center, I was all in. The work they do for youth in Tennessee is unmatched, and this event has grown into a beautiful celebration of how transformative music can be for the community. Each year, I’ve expanded the boundaries from a primarily country music event into one that embraces all genres, much like my music.
This year, you’ve got an incredible lineup, including artists like Jordan Davis, Madeline Edwards, and Jonathan McReynolds. How do you choose the performers for BRELAND & Friends, and what can fans expect from this year’s show?
I cast a pretty wide net for guest artists at Breland & Friends, but the main thing is that I have some sort of relationship with them, whether we’ve collaborated together in the past or just have mutual respect for one another on the internet. I’ve been blown away at how many artists are down to come out and sing a song for a charitable cause. This year in particular, we have some of my favorite vocalists on the lineup from my childhood idol, Jojo, to one of the best gospel singers, Jonathan McReynolds. My band and I learn a bunch of songs specifically for this event each year, and this year might be our best set list yet.
Last year’s event raised over $140K for the Oasis Center, benefiting Middle Tennessee’s at-risk youth. What impact have you seen from the funds raised, and why is this cause so important to you?
It’s been such a blessing to see the impact our fundraising efforts make for the Oasis Center and their work. I always feel like performing is an opportunity to get back to people, but it hits so much deeper when you know 100% of the proceeds from the show benefit people in direct need. No child should be left homeless or without a support network, and it means a lot to me to be able to assist in my way.
Your songwriting career has spanned multiple genres and big-name collaborations, from Chris Brown to Nelly. How do you approach writing for such a diverse range of artists, and how does that influence your music?
As a songwriter and an artist, I try my best just to be a vessel for whatever the song needs to be. So whether I’m writing for myself or another artist, the goal is the same – I’m in service to the song. I genuinely love so many different styles of music, so on any given day, I’m liable to be inspired to make something in an entirely different vibe or genre than the day before. I think that variety and diversity of sound and approach has drawn other artists to my music, and I’m grateful to have so many great collaborators and cuts with such a wide array of artists. As a writer, I can really only put out a few of my favorite songs at once, but being able to pitch songs to other artists gives these songs a chance to be heard.
You’re also good friends with NBA star Jimmy Butler, who featured you in his Netflix documentary, ‘Starting 5.’ How did that friendship come about, and how has it influenced your journey as an artist?
Jimmy and I first connected on Instagram, and he was just reposting some of my songs. When I learned he was interested in songwriting, we formed a deeper relationship and started making music together. Jimmy has such an open ear when it comes to music; he appreciates a lot of different genres. I think that’s part of why we connect: we can speak country music, but we also love R&B, hip-hop, Afrobeats, Latin music, and more. Seeing the level of consistency it takes to be at the top of his game and the work he puts into being a great athlete inspires me to work harder in my arena, and being able to create with someone who comes from such a different background has made me a more dynamic writer and producer. Expect some records from us shortly.
The fourth annual BRELAND & Friends concert promises to be another exceptional evening, showcasing BRELAND’s genre-bending artistry while supporting the vital work of the Oasis Center. With a stellar lineup and a commitment to making a difference, this is an event not to be missed.