Mark Bryan Co-Founded Hootie & the Blowfish. Now He’s Enjoying More of the Spotlight (Exclusive)
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Mark Bryan, the co-founder of the iconic band Hootie & the Blowfish, is stepping into the spotlight once again. Despite the band not being on tour this summer, the lead guitarist, Mark Bryan, 58, is keeping busy with his solo career. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Bryan shared his passion for making music, stating, “There’s never been a time where I thought I wouldn’t be making music.”
While Hootie & the Blowfish may not be actively touring, Bryan remains dedicated to creating and sharing his work. Known for his contributions to hit songs like “Hold My Hand,” “Let Her Cry,” and “Only Wanna Be with You,” Bryan’s drive for songwriting continues to fuel his artistic journey. “It’s more about trying to give songs life. And I’ve spent my adult life doing just that,” Bryan expresses.
During Hootie & the Blowfish’s hiatus, Bryan has been involved in various projects, from playing on movie soundtracks to producing albums for other artists. His passion for creating timeless music is evident in his ongoing commitment to the craft. As he prepares for his upcoming homecoming show at The Atlantis in Washington, DC, Bryan reflects on his musical journey with gratitude.
Bryan’s band, Mark Bryan and the Screaming Trojans, will also be performing alongside him at the upcoming show. This collaboration with his current bandmates brings back memories of his teenage years when he dreamt of making music with friends. His creative roots have guided him throughout his career, shaping his approach to songwriting and performance.
In addition to his work with Hootie & the Blowfish, Bryan released a solo album titled Popped last year. The album showcases his musical versatility and creativity, drawing inspiration from artists like Beck and Brian Wilson. Bryan’s solo project allowed him to explore new sounds and push his artistic boundaries.
Reflecting on his musical evolution, Bryan acknowledges the difference between writing music for a band versus creating solo work. He emphasises the freedom and flexibility he has in pursuing his creative vision as a solo artist. Despite the uncertainties surrounding the future of Hootie & the Blowfish, Bryan remains focused on his passion for making music.
As he continues to explore new musical avenues and develop his solo career, Bryan’s dedication to his craft shines through. Whether he’s on stage with his band or working on solo projects, his commitment to creating meaningful and impactful music remains unwavering. Fans can look forward to seeing more of Mark Bryan in the spotlight as he shares his talent and passion with the world.