A lot. Lynyrd Skynyrd, Doc Watson, Tony Rice, John Mellencamp, Bob Seger, Steve Earle, Darrell Scott, Tim O'Brien, Chris Knight, Led Zeppelin, Eagles, David Cook, Hank Williams, Johnny Cash
Bio
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To write the kind of music that Brian Wallen performs, you can't be insincere. It's something that you have to live. It's a perspective gained by living with and being part of the American middle class; honest, hard working people who have a strong sense of right and wrong, and pride that binds them together. Born and raised in rural Indiana, Brian says, "I write about what I see. So, when I look at my community and see empty houses and businesses shut down, I'm going to be influenced by that."
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The recession has certainly affected the whole country, but it has hit the rust belt especially hard. All through the Midwest, people are losing their jobs, their homes, and their lives. Hard Times have indeed come to the nation, as Brian sings in the title track of his new record.
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"Hard Times is directly inspired by what I've seen in my local community, and in our leadership", Brian says. "People can relate to the song, because it's what everyone is living. When you turn on the TV and hear we've turned the corner in this recession, it's kind of hard to believe when your neighbors just lost their house. But a lot of us are still optimistic, because we really have faith that God will help us through."
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Faith is a big part of Brian's life, and it translates into what he does. Brian elaborates, "A lot of the people I grew up around and know today have a strong relationship with God, as do I. And it's really easy to see how faith can not only strengthen you in everything you do, but bring people together and lift them up as well, and that's really important. When somebody comes to me after a show and says that I made them smile, or they were blessed by what I do, that makes it all worth it. That's what it's all about."
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New Album
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Brian Wallen will be rolling out a new CD the 10th and 11th, which he says is "totally different that anything I've ever done before, and certainly the most artistic thing I've ever done." It will feature 9 original songs, a few that you've heard before, and many that are brand new, performed in a completely unique style. Although they may not be definable by any set label, the project moves towards an Americana/Rock sound. While it contains plenty of great "regular" music, it also sends out a message with songs such as "Hard Times", "Hey Mr. President", and "The Bailout Song".
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Praise God!! My husband & I both enjoyed your concert last night. Your band is truly made up of great guys. Thanks for sharing your "God-given" talent with everyone...You sure made us smile
Just got back from the Blue Moon In Losantville. There was an excellent turnout and Brian Wallen and the Blue Lightning Band sounded awsome,can't wait for the 8th of august for a return performance.Thanks guys for such a great show.
Thank you so much Brian. That helped me out a whole lot. I'm glad you clicked on my page today too. God was listening and sent me the advice that I was looking for. Thank you.
Wow,, You surely got your moneys worth! I'm glad you got to go, and I'm happy you enjoyed it one more time. I'm not at all sure I'd hold up standing in line for one hour in the heat.
You might have a point there, Brian Wilson, but I know that deep down you secretly love the thought of being able to wear eyeliner and not worry about being judged. :)
wow. lol there's nothing wrong with guys wearing black eyeliner! Any other color would be kind of weird though. Ya gotta break the stereotypes Brian! :p
