What sets Brandon apart from many others, besides his world-class musicianship and songwriting, is his unique ability to engage and captivate the audience during his live shows.
Brandon has received numerous nominations from The Maple Blues Awards, Canada’s national blues awards. Last year, this Yukonian guitar virtuoso finally clinched the “Acoustic Act of the Year” award. He’s back in the limelight again this year with a nomination for “Guitarist of the Year”. Time will tell if he secures the award. In the previous year, he had nominations for “Songwriter of the Year”, “Acoustic Act of the Year”, and “Album of the Year” for his latest solo album, “Here On Earth”.
In 2013, The Maple Blues Awards nominated Brandon for both “Acoustic Act of the Year” and “Songwriter of the Year”. In 2010, he was recognized for “Songwriter of the Year”, which cemented his position as one of Canada’s premier songwriters. Additionally, he was among 13 Canadian artists selected to pen a song about their respective provinces or territories for CBC’s Great Canadian Song Quest in 2011.
In 2012, Isaak represented British Columbia at the International Blues Challenge held on Beale St in Memphis, TN – the largest gathering of blues artists globally.
His debut solo album, “Bluesman’s Plea”, despite its title, is a diverse roots album that accurately reflects his live performances. It was nominated for a 2012 Western Canadian Music Award for “Best Blues Album of the Year”. The tracks showcase a medley of Ragtime, Delta Blues, Piedmont, Gospel, and Swing styles.
Many also recognize Brandon as the lead vocalist, primary songwriter, and guitarist for the popular Canadian Jump band, “The Twisters”, based in Vancouver. He’s currently fronting a new ensemble named Brandon Isaak & His Saints of Swing.
Over the years, Brandon has collaborated with some of his major musical influences, such as Corey Harris, Guy Davis, Taj Mahal, Colin Linden, Harrison Kennedy, Serena Ryder, The Sojourners, and Jim Byrnes. He’s also shared the stage with electric greats like Jeff Healy, Joe Louis Walker, Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne, and Chicago Blues Diva Zora Young.
Brandon’s passion for the raw and spontaneous essence of the blues is unparalleled. Those who’ve been part of his audience can attest to his electrifying guitar prowess and deeply soulful vocals. His performances are not just shows, but experiences. Witnessing him live, you’re immediately drawn into the fervor and dynamism of his presentation. His mastery in both songs and storytelling solidifies him as a distinguished Canadian artist.