Brinley Addington

Born: Kingsport, Tenn.
Lives: Nashville
Age: 30
EP: Songs From a Bar
Single: “Come Back”
Twitter: @brinley_
Instagram: @brinleyaddington
Facebook: @brinleyaddington

Since making his way to Music City more than 10 years ago, Tennessee native Brinley Addington has been pounding the musical pavement. The traditionally-steeped troubadour co-penned Tyler Farr’s recent single, “I Should Go to Church Sometime,” and has secured opening gigs for a number of artists, including Chris Young, Jon Pardi, Thomas Rhett and more. Brinley dropped his five-song EP, Songs From a Bar, in 2018, and recently released new single, “Come Back.”

How did you get started in music?

The first time I sang in front of a crowd was in a talent show in the fourth grade, but I feel like I really got started by singing in church when I was 12 years old.

At what age did you realize you wanted to make music your career?

I’ve always loved music, but when I was about nine years old, I became obsessed with music. I had no idea where to even start, but that’s when I started dreaming.

Who are some of musical influences?

Alan Jackson, George Strait, James Taylor, Randy Travis and Vince Gill.

What three words describe you as a musician?

Honest, heartfelt, country.

What would you say is unique about your sound?

It’s a reflection of who I am, where I’m from and what I listen to.

What does your new single, “Come Back,” say about you?

Since it was inspired by something I was living at the time, I feel like it’s spot-on about what I was going through and how I felt. I really tried to be honest about where I was and let it come through in the song.

What was the first concert you attended?

I was really little so I don’t remember much, but it was Randy Travis and Alan Jackson. Pretty great one to get started with.

What’s the last song you heard that blew you away?

Cole Swindell’s “Break Up in the End.” I haven’t been hit that hard by a song in a while.

Where is the craziest place you’ve performed?

I got asked to play a song on an airplane one time. There may have been a crazier place I’m forgetting, but that was definitely the most awkward.

What’s the first thing you do after a show?

Drink a beer.

What’s your favorite song to cover?

“Time Marches On” by Tracy Lawrence.

What family member or friend has been the most supportive of your musical career?

My mom. She’s been there for me and encouraged me every step of the way in my career and my personal life. This business can be hard at times, and I don’t think I’d be where I am if she hadn’t been in my corner on those hard days.