Bartees Strange | Broken Record

Family Roots

Bartees Strange's musical journey is deeply rooted in his family's influence. His mother, an opera singer, and his father, a military engineer, both played pivotal roles in shaping his artistic path. Bartees reflects on how his mother's experiences as a Black opera singer in the 1970s were challenging yet inspiring, while his father's passion for music collection introduced him to diverse genres 1. This blend of opera, gospel, and eclectic records from his father's collection laid the foundation for his unique sound. Bartees shares, "Music has deepened our relationship in that way," highlighting the profound connection he shares with his parents through music 2.

   

Emo Influence

Growing up in Oklahoma, Bartees Strange found solace in Midwest emo music, which significantly influenced his musical style. He recalls his early exposure to bands like American Football and Cap'n Jazz, which sparked his love for the genre 3. This passion for emo music, combined with his experiences in the hardcore scene, shaped his artistic identity. Bartees reminisces about attending a Norma Jean concert, saying, "Hardcore music kind of was the thing that grabbed me," illustrating the impact of these formative experiences 4.

   

Genre Fusion

Bartees Strange's music is a tapestry of diverse genres, reflecting his journey through various musical landscapes. He integrates elements of indie rock, country blues, and hip-hop into his work, creating a sound that defies categorization 5. His artistic confidence grew as he embraced the freedom to blend these influences, a journey that began with his move to New York. Bartees explains, "I was like, 25, 24, 25 when I really started hitting it hard in New York," marking the start of his exploration into genre fusion 6.