To say it’s been a long year for Justin Brogdon would be the understatement of a lifetime. After a failed relationship and broken dreams sent the Athens, Ga. based songsmith packing back to his hometown of Tallahassee, FL. in the spring of 2006, many thought that would be the end of it. Disillusioned with the music business, he took the comfort of a steady paycheck and the security of a nine-to-five job, but soon realized that that wasn’t the path he was meant to take in his life. As the seasons changed from summer to fall so too did Brogdon. Turning his frustration and heartache into focus and inspiration, he put pen to paper and began writing what would become his self titled debut, Justin Brogdon. In late October, Brogdon returned to Athens, Ga. with a brand new look and a brand new attitude. Later that year Justin teamed up with multi-platinum, two time Grammy Award winning producer/engineer Don McCollister (Sister Hazel, Shawn Mullins, Indigo Girls, Third Day) to help bring his vision to life. He and his band loaded into Nickel & Dime Studios in Avondale Estates, Ga. in the first few days of 2007 and began recording. Multi-platinum producer John Kurzweg, who is well known for his work with Creed, Puddle of Mudd, and Jewel, was later brought onboard to mix the record. Brogdon’s songwriting has drawn comparisons to that of Tom Petty, the Rolling Stones, and the Black Crowe’s. It’s an eclectic, well balanced mix of classic rock, soul, and modern pop/rock that he describes as “modern/vintage” rock ‘n roll. When listening to Brogdon, one can’t help but feel like they’re riding shotgun with him as the stories of his life unfold before their very eyes. With themes ranging from independence, accountability, and perseverance to triumph, passion, and love, Justin Brogdon is every twenty to thirty-something coping with success and failure as we all do. If you’re a fan of big, electric guitars and infectious choruses, Justin Brogdon is sure to be an instant favorite. With his unassuming baby-faced, boyish looks and his infectious smile, people are often taken aback when seeing Brogdon perform for the first time. His soulful voice and engaging stage presence are distinctly his own, yet there’s a familiarity about him that you can’t quite put your finger on. His honesty and candor onstage creates a rapport with his audience that feels more like that of an old friend than an entertainer. One thing is abundantly clear upon meeting Justin Brogdon, he is music. Whether it’s debating it, listening to it, or discussing the craft of writing it; he is intensely passionate and respectful of the art. As a singer, guitarist, and songwriter, he constantly studies and pays homage to the greats that came before him. You may not be so familiar with his name and face now, but you can be rest assured that in time you will absolutely know his music.