Self-described “y’alternative” singer-songwriter (and native Virginian) Brent Funkhouser has returned with his deeply personal, berry-themed track “Blackberries”
The song’s basis centers on a single question “How do you build a better life?” Funkhouser explores this query through intimate anecdotes peppered throughout the song. “I’ll make the roses bloom,” he opens, “dead of winter or the heat of June,” as one of many impossible feats Funkhouser desires to accomplish in “Blackberries.” His quest to make his loved one smile is what powers the track’s narrative and gives meaning to the titular fruit.
Funkhouser uses the imagery of the dark berry metaphorically, writing “I’d pick a thousand blackberries / make you see a bounty.” The song reads as a self-ascribed quest for personal betterment, to make those around him happy, even if it comes at his expense. This is just one example of Funkhouser’s confessional songwriting style, as this single comes after the wide release of his debut album The Next Karaoke Star.
Funkhouser has built up a considerable fanbase since then, successfully crowdfunding a vinyl LP release and getting the chance to open for icons like Judy Collins. Funkhouser’s brand of “Virginia-grown Americana” is just beginning to blossom. He’s even promoted “Blackberries” with a YouTube Short detailing his recipe for a country-style blackberry mule to pair with the song. Be on the lookout for more upcoming (again, self-described) “Appalachian twang-banger” singles in the near future.
“Blackberries” is available now on major streaming platforms like YouTube, Spotify, and Apple Music.
Cameron Landry is a former journalism student at The George Washington University, and a current writer for Alchemical Records. He’s shared a passion for music journalism for several years, and focused much of his reporting as an undergraduate on how independent music venues have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Based in Washington, DC, Cameron can often be found at local concerts (and record stores!) in the district.
Subscribe to Alchemical Records today to support our efforts online and in print.
Join the Alchemical Records Street Team to promote these and other artists, live music, and music community organizations & events while receiving cool perks from artists throughout the region.
Recent Articles March 21st. A day that I will always think of amazing album releases. DC-based musician, producer, and singer-songwriter, Rachel Levitin, released Witty Banter
Alchemical Records is a Washington, D.C. based music publication. We cover the Washington, D.C., Baltimore and Richmond, VA metro area music scenes, including band interviews, articles about your favorite musicians, new music and concert dates.
