Brandon Markell Holmes
1 Course • 8 StudentsBiography
Brandon Markell Holmes is a vocalist, songwriter, and performance artist whose work exists at the intersection of house music, social commentary, and performance art. Hailed by Rolling Stone as a "slow-burning vocal-house juggernaut" and praised by Billboard for his ability to move "from a low simmer to a boiling passion," Brandon brings a rich emotional depth and theatrical presence to every performance.
Originally from Chicago and now based in Brooklyn, Brandon is a formally trained theatre actor and self-taught vocalist who uses his voice and artistry to explore themes of identity, history, and cultural observation. His genre-defying visual EP Inertia was featured in Afropunk, while his standout vocal work on the GRAMMY-nominated Gorillaz album Humanz cemented his status as a rising creative force in contemporary music.
Brandon has become a staple in the underground house music scene, known for his dynamic collaborations and impromptu performances with artists such as musclecars, JKriv, and Toucan Sounds. His studio credits include work with innovators like Byron The Aquarius, Dee Diggs, and Anthony Nicholson, and he has been featured across influential platforms such as BBC, NTS, Rinse FM, and Lot Radio.
A self-described "artist’s artist," Brandon’s mission is rooted in authenticity and intention. As he puts it: “My prayer is to always create, speak and express with an authentic understanding of what I’m saying and why I’m saying it.” Whether in the club, the studio, or the classroom, Brandon Markell Holmes continues to expand the possibilities of what a vocalist and artist can be in today’s music landscape.
