On July 13, 2019, Blanco Brown’s “The Git Up” began a remarkable 12-week reign on Billboard’s Hot Country Songs chart. This single, which marked Brown’s debut entry, was released as the first track from his album “Honeysuckle & Lightning Bugs.” The song’s success was largely driven by a viral dance challenge on TikTok and YouTube, with Brown himself contributing to the craze by posting a tutorial.
Blanco Brown, reflecting on the creation of “The Git Up,” shared with Billboard in 2019, “I grabbed spoons, tambourine, anything I could find that made a nice sound. When I got finished, it was so full of joy. I was doing the dance as I was writing it. I said, ‘This is going to be a song that makes people dance and brings joy.’” The infectious joy and danceability of the song resonated with a wide audience, propelling it to the top of the charts.
Before achieving fame as a recording artist, Brown had already made a name for himself in the music industry by producing songs for pop acts such as Chris Brown, Fergie, and Pitbull. His transition from behind-the-scenes producer to chart-topping artist was seamless, with “The Git Up” serving as a perfect introduction to his unique blend of country and hip-hop.
Following the success of “The Git Up,” Brown continued to make waves in the country music scene. He collaborated with the band Parmalee on the song “Just the Way,” which led the Country Airplay chart in March 2021 and reached No. 3 on Hot Country Songs. This collaboration further solidified Brown’s presence in the country music genre and showcased his versatility as an artist.
However, Brown’s journey was not without its challenges. In 2020, he was involved in a severe motorcycle accident that resulted in multiple injuries, including broken wrists, arms, legs, and pelvis. The accident required a 12-hour surgery, but Brown’s spirit remained unbroken. In his first interview after the accident, six months later, he told Billboard, “I was broken, but it didn’t break my spirit.”
Despite the physical and emotional toll of the accident, Brown continued to pursue his passion for music. In June, he released a four-song EP titled “Cedar Walls & Whiskey.” At the 2024 ACM Awards on May 16, Brown expressed his determination to stay positive and keep striving towards his goals. “I’m gonna keep on manifesting everything I do in life,” he mused. “I’m gonna stay positive no matter what and just keep thriving and striving to get where I need to go.”
Blanco Brown’s story is one of resilience and creativity. From producing hits for other artists to creating a viral sensation with “The Git Up,” and overcoming a life-threatening accident, Brown’s journey is a testament to his unwavering spirit and dedication to his craft. His ability to bring joy through music and dance has left an indelible mark on the country music landscape, and his future endeavors are eagerly anticipated by fans and industry insiders alike.
Source: Billboard
