Today we’d like to introduce you to Nona Brown.
Hi Nona, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work life, how can you bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
For as long as I can remember, I’ve always loved music! I grew up in a church where music was what drove a service. One Sunday, the drummer didn’t show up, and without any prior training or knowledge of this hidden gift, I hopped on the drums and played as if I had rehearsed with the band. A few years later, my pastor called me to the front of the church and said he envisioned me playing piano. He prayed what we call “the prayer of faith” over me, and not long after, I began playing piano in church – no lessons or training – all by ear and inspiration.
The smooth and unconventional sound of San Francisco Bay Area native Nona Brown is “a breath of fresh air,” according to her fans. From her voice’s sweet and silky sound to her piano playing, songwriting, and producing, the Nona Brown impression will be lasting. Nona recorded her first CD in 1997, entitled; I’ll Sing My Song. In 2019, after writing music for years, she emerged with her sophomore release, Songs from My Journal Volume 1, ranking #14 and #21 on the Billboard Gospel chart in weeks one and two!
Nona’s gospel music roots led to many wonderful collaborations, such as working with Josh Groban as choir coordinator for his Northern California tour; guest vocalist and composer on three national recordings of the Gospel Music Workshop of America; guest vocalist at Oprah Winfrey’s Legends Ball and group member of gospel music legend, the late Edwin Hawkins and the New Edwin Hawkins Singers.
With the success of Songs from My Journal Volume 1, Nona is excited to share Songs from My Journal Volume 2. The project features some of the Bay Area’s finest vocalists and musicians performing songs, all written by Nona. Nona’s music career includes some additional amazing accomplishments – international performances at Umbria Jazz Festival, Porretta Soul Festival, Maspalomas Costa Canaria Soul Festival; arranger and background vocalist on the 2022 GRAMMY Award-winning Best Children’s Album by Falu A Colorful World and 2022 Telly Award Winner for her “Black Lives Matter” music video co-written with Tony Saunders.
As an active music community member, Nona previously served as Recording Academy San Francisco Chapter Board Governor, Vice President, and Black Music Collective (BMC) Ambassador before becoming the first black woman to be elected President of the San Francisco Chapter of the Recording Academy. Nona Brown is a name to remember and a life inspired by.
We all face challenges, but looking back, would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Music Business Challenges
By no means has this journey been easy! As my gifts began to unfold, songwriting became my niche. I found that I could write songs at the drop of a hat – the lyrics were strong, and the melodies were great – that’s what I was told consistently. Then why was it so hard to get an opportunity to have my music considered for a major artist, film, or TV? The question to me was always, who has recorded your music, or have you ever had your music in film or TV? The question in my head was, “How does one get heard if never given the opportunity?” I’ve often heard the saying, “It’s not what you know but who you know.” Over the years, I’ve found that to be true in some cases. Many factors play into an “opportunity,” and one is timing. Despite all the disappointment and feeling like “I just didn’t have it,” I never stopped writing! Then last year, one of my songs was signed to a mainstream music agency that pitches songs for ADS, TV, and Film. Then, just a few months ago, out of the blue, the jazz trio (Brown, Sturgis & Brown) that I am part of had our single “Every Time I Close My Eyes” featured in a Life Time Movie, “PRIDE – A Seven Deadly Sins Story.” Boy, am I glad I didn’t quit!
Personal Challenges
The biggest challenge of my life came in 2015 when I was diagnosed with breast cancer and underwent a bilateral mastectomy. Thankfully, I endured that storm and remain cancer free! The power of my faith in God and using my songwriting to express my emotions and encourage others in the fight saved my life!
Let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
Feel free to refer you my bio for additional information. I’m a Recording Artist, Musician, Songwriter, Producer, and Motivational Speaker. In addition, I currently serve as President of the San Francisco Chapter of the Recording Academy (the organization that produces the Grammys). I’m known for my spirit of excellence in all I do! I am proud of my work ethic/dedication, my children, and my grandson. I believe what sets me apart is my ability to motivate “anyone” and make “everyone” feel special.
Let’s end by discussing what matters most to you and why.
My family matters most. Their love for me is not based on my gifts/talents or what I do. They love me for who I am. Well, they might love me a tad bit more for my peach cobbler:)
Contact Info:
- Website: www.nonabrown.org
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officialnonalisabrown/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nonalisabrown
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nona-brown-1235b211a/
- Twitter: https://twitter.com/NonaLisaBrown
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4M5j7HwtFVTF_0O0EXIBNg
Image Credits
TownFuturist, Joi Rhone Presents
