Today we’d like to introduce you to Michael “Brother Chunky” Barclay.
Hi Michael, thanks for sharing your story with us. To start, maybe you can tell our readers some of your backstories.
Well, I am a Utah-based singer, songwriter, and guitarist. I was raised on a farm in Southeastern Idaho and moved to Utah to attend school. I’ve always loved music (playing piano and trombone in my youth) and started playing guitar at age 21. In college, I played in a few bands but didn’t start my own band until age 29.
After a ten-year hiatus to focus on being a father, I decided to start performing music again and became known as “Brother Chunky.” As Brother Chunky, I have performed regularly for the last 15 years (full band, trio, duo, and solo).
I have released two full-length albums called, “and Stuff” (2013) and “Down Low” (2018) as well as four singles. I love to meet new people and perform for a variety of audiences.
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle-free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
Like anything, there have been ups and downs, but overall I am happy with where I am. I have met a lot of very cool supportive people. The biggest challenge is booking gigs because it is time-consuming and some booking agents are either slow to respond or don’t respond at all. I have learned to be patient and to be consistent.
I have also learned that you can’t win them all and to be grateful for the opportunities that do work out.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am an independent musician. A singer, songwriter, and guitarist who specializes in original “funky bluesy roots music.” I am known for my signature guitar style, vocals, and entertaining performances.
I am most proud that I am able to write and perform original music consistently. I think my personality (can be silly at times) sets me apart from others.
Is there a quality that you most attribute to your success?
I think the fact that I love to connect with people and have a positive attitude helps with any success I have had. Part of my attitude is that I am grateful for every opportunity I have to perform. I enjoy it.
Contact Info:
- Email: brochunky@gmail.com
- Website: www.brotherchunky.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brotherchunky/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BrotherChunky
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0ZO2E1iSzBi0YVMbi5STnA
- Other: https://brotherchunky.bandcamp.com
Image Credits
Jeremy Eldredge, Alta Stewart, Gregory Downs, and Camryn Barclay