Ian will likely always be best known as the singer in The Stone Roses, the Manchester, England band that broke through in 1989 with their self-titled debut; it’s generally regarded as one of the best UK albums of all time. I remember picking it up when it came out and digging it right away.
When you hear Liam Gallagher of Oasis sing, you’re pretty much hearing the swagger and tone of Ian Brown’s voice; Liam simply adds his own sneer to the presentation. The Stone Roses were highly influential, and you’ll often hear Noel Gallagher refer to them with nothing but reverence. Beyond The Beatles, it’s easy to hear Oasis’ other main influence if you know where to find it.
Ian’s solo output is superb; I don’t think he’s done anything I haven’t liked (how many artists can you say that about?). If you’re looking for an introduction to Ian’s solo work, check out his 2-disc best of package, “The Greatest,” from 2005 - play it on shuffle and thank me later.
Ian’s currently out on tour in support of his fall 2009 release, “My Way.” The record includes a couple of tracks Ian wrote for other major artists: “Vanity Kills” was written for Kanye West, but he missed Kanye’s submission deadline...and the first single “Stellify,” a song he originally intended to pass along to Rihanna, but liked it so much he kept it for himself. Check it out:
Ian Brown - Stellify
Some classic Ian from 1999’s “Golden Greats” release…
Ian Brown - Dolphins Were Monkeys
Ian Brown - Dolphins Were Monkeys (U.N.K.L.E. vs. South Remix)
Ian Brown – Dolphins Were Monkeys
