We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Uncle Brent a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Uncle Brent, thanks for joining us today. Do you wish you had started sooner?
There’s some regret about not fully committing to a music career earlier. When you’re young, people often discourage risky paths—especially in music. It’s tough, unpredictable, and full of uncertainty. But looking back, it’s clear that anything worth pursuing comes with its challenges. At this stage, I know that success is possible with focus and determination.
Music started as a passion in childhood, with songwriting beginning during walks to school in my second year of first grade. Though I played the tuba in the school band, the desire to create original music always remained. Life got busy with college, work, and responsibilities. Leadership roles in my professional career as an Analyst, shaped the direction of life. Still, there’s always that wonder about where the path would have led if music had given priority.
That said, pursuing music seriously in my 40s felt like the right time. Uncle Brent & the NoStone came together, bringing a wealth of stories, experiences, and perspectives to the music. The songwriting has a depth that can only come with time and living through both highs and lows. Blending rock, Americana, and Texas grit, the sound feels authentic to who I am today.
Had music been pursued earlier, things might have played out differently—perhaps more opportunities or struggles. What matters now is being here, making music with a band that rocks.
About Uncle Brent & the NoStone:
Uncle Brent & the NoStone reflects years of passion and dedication. The band blends rock, Americana, and Texas grit, creating an authentic “Texperience” sound. Formed later in life, the group brings together musicians who share a vision of telling stories, connecting with people, and creating something that resonates. With experience and a shared commitment to the craft, the journey has only just begun, and the chemistry within the band is undeniable.
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
Uncle Brent’s Musical Journey
Let’s just say my journey into the world of music could’ve easily been mistaken for a slapstick comedy show. But that’s the thing about life—it’s messy, it’s unpredictable, and sometimes it takes a few curveballs (or tubas) to get you to the sweet spot. Music has always been my passion, starting from childhood, when I found myself writing tunes on my way to school.
How I Got Into Music
The road to becoming a songwriter and performer was a little bumpy, but also full of colorful characters and unforgettable experiences. Growing up, I was that kid with a head full of melodies. I may have been a bit late to class a few times (creative doesn’t always come with punctuality, right?), but I always knew music was my passion. I played the tuba in school (not exactly my first choice—I had drumsticks in mind), but it was that oversized brass instrument that taught me the fundamentals of music theory. Not glamorous or sexy, but you make do.
Fast forward through the chaos of college life and parenthood, and I found myself spending time on open mic stages, singing whatever ridiculous lyrics came to mind. That was when I realized music wasn’t just a hobby—it was my therapy, my escape. After juggling life’s curveballs like divorce, job changes, and the occasional disaster, I committed myself to pursuing music more seriously in my 40s. By that time, I had a band—Uncle Brent & the NoStone—and we set out to make music that blends rock, Americana, and good ol’ Texas grit.
The Sound of Uncle Brent & the NoStone
Uncle Brent & the NoStone is a band born from years of experience and deep-rooted Texas pride. The band’s sound is a fusion of rock, Americana, and all the gritty stories we’ve lived through. We focus on creating music that’s as authentic as it is engaging—whether we’re telling stories about heartbreak, sharing a tequila with a garden gnome or celebrating the simpler joys of life, we aim to connect with people through our melodies and lyrics. We like to say we’re giving the world a “Texperience,” one song at a time.
What Sets Us Apart
What sets me apart as a songwriter and the band apart as a group is authenticity. We don’t just play music; every song we create is a reflection of our experiences, whether it’s about the blunders, the struggles, or the triumphs that have shaped us. There’s a rawness and humor in our music that’s often overlooked in today’s industry. I’ve always believed that life is better when you can laugh at yourself, and music should be no different. Whether it’s through witty lyrics, catchy chorus, or the occasional out-of-tune guitar solo, we want our fans to feel like they’re not alone in their own struggles and joys.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m most proud of the music we’ve created, especially the ability to still surprise myself with each new song. There’s something magical about putting a lifetime of stories and emotions into a piece of music that not only speaks to me but resonates with others. The journey to where we are now has been long, but every step—every gig, every misstep, and every high/low note—has been worth it. But let’s be honest, I’m also pretty proud of the fact that I can still make people laugh with my absurd takes on life and love. Music isn’t all serious business, and I like to inject a bit of humor and relatability into every song.
What I Want Potential Clients/Fans to Know
For those of you considering following along with Uncle Brent & the NoStone, I want you to know that you’re not just getting music—you’re getting our stories, and our experiences. We’re more than just a band; we’re a family, and that’s something you’ll hear in every song. If you’re looking for music that makes you think, laugh, and maybe even cry a little, you’ve come to the right place.
We’ve got big plans, and we’re just getting started. So, if you’re into honest lyrics, authentic performances, and a little bit of comedy sprinkled in, come join us for the ride.
Thank you for taking the time to learn a little more about me and the band. If you like what you hear, join us and become a part of our musical family.
In your view, what can society to do to best support artists, creatives and a thriving creative ecosystem?
Supporting artists and creatives requires more than just admiring their work—it’s about creating a place that nurtures and elevates art. As a society, there are several ways we can foster a thriving creative community.
1. Invest in the Arts: Governments, private sectors, and communities should invest in funding for the arts. This includes grants and opportunities for artists to showcase their work. Public funding for programs, music education, and local performances creates spaces for creatives to develop their craft without the constant pressure of financial strain.
2. Support Local Talent: Embracing and promoting local musicians, artists, and performers can go a long way in building a creative culture. Local venues, festivals, and events should prioritize homegrown talent, giving them a platform to grow and connect with audiences.
3. Embrace Inclusion: A thriving creative ecosystem reflects a broad spectrum of experiences. Encouraging diverse voices and perspectives enriches the arts and offers something for everyone. Society should value creative works that represent various backgrounds and viewpoints, recognizing that art is a powerful tool for connection.
4. Create Opportunities for Collaboration: Encouraging collaboration between artists and other industries—whether it’s technology, fashion, or business—opens up new opportunities. Interdisciplinary work can lead to innovation and new forms of artistic expression.
5. Promote Fair Compensation: Artists should be compensated fairly for their time and effort. This includes not just big-name acts but also independent creators, songwriters, and performers. By supporting fair pay for creatives, we’re ensuring that they can sustain their craft and live off their work.
6. Nurture Education and Mentorship: Programs that provide mentorship and education for young creatives can help develop the next generation of artists. Investing in the development of artists from all backgrounds ensures the continuation of a vibrant creative community.
Have any books or other resources had a big impact on you?
There have been several resources that have significantly impacted my management and entrepreneurial thinking, especially when it comes to navigating the music business. Some of the key ones include:
The CLIMB Podcast – Hosted by award-winning hit songwriter Brent Baxter and artist developer Johnny Dwinell, this podcast has been a game-changer for me. It’s all about creating leverage in the music business—giving artists the tools to succeed beyond just talent. The real-world strategies shared have shaped how I think about growing my own career and business, helping me focus on building real connections with my audience and positioning myself for long-term success.
Songwriting Pro – This resource has been pivotal in learning the craft and business of songwriting. It offers everything from blogs and workshops to ebooks, helping songwriters write better songs, navigate the business side of things, and connect with other professionals. As a songwriter myself, the focus on blending the craft with the practicalities of running a career has deeply influenced how I approach not just the creative side, but also the entrepreneurial aspects of my journey.
https://www.SongwritingPro.com
Rick Barker – Rick’s resources, especially his Music Marketing Vault and The Fan Extraction Formula, have transformed the way I think about marketing and fan engagement. As an independent artist, learning how to build and nurture a fanbase using digital advertising and fan-first strategies has been invaluable. His approach to building a sustainable music career, especially for independent artists, has reshaped my thinking about fan relationships and revenue streams.
https://RickBarker.com
Rick Beato – Beato’s YouTube channel has been an incredible resource for expanding my understanding of music theory, production, and songwriting. His deep dives into song structure, music history, and production techniques have not only sharpened my songwriting skills but have also given me a broader perspective on what makes a song resonate with listeners. The way he breaks down musical elements has been instrumental in shaping how I craft my own songs and understand the larger musical landscape.
https://RickBeato.com
Sound Pollution Podcast – Through the Sound Pollution Podcast, I’ve been able to connect with a community of independent artists and explore new music from a range of genres. The interviews and behind-the-scenes stories shared on this platform have broadened my perspective on the challenges and opportunities within the indie music scene. It’s a constant reminder that music is a shared experience, and the creative community is a valuable resource for learning, growing, and finding inspiration.
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4ZXYavu5ZfOaThUme95GH8
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sound-pollution/id1502557141
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/b65ff1b6-9f68-4979-b818-d68a17f8ccad/sound-pollution
Contact Info:
- Website: https://unclebrentmusic.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UncleBrentMusic
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100086223463321
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/UncleBrentMusic
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/nostonemusic
Image Credits
Randy Leyva @ RLP-Photography