In the vibrant tapestry of contemporary music, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Bradley David Sharper, the Filipino-American powerhouse behind the indie sensation, Sharper’s Florist. From the quiet streets of White Plains, Maryland, to the bustling avenues of Los Angeles, California, Sharper’s journey is a testament to resilience, creativity, and the transformative power of music.
Sharper’s musical odyssey commenced under rather daunting circumstances. Following a hip surgery in middle school that left him immobilized except for his arms, he found solace and escape in the strings of a guitar. Immersed in the anthemic soundscapes of The Killers’ Hot Fuzz, he cultivated not only skill but also a profound connection to music as a means of expression and healing.
Despite being an outlier in his hometown’s country and southern rock-dominated music scene with his renditions of John Mayer and Death Cab for Cutie covers, Sharper’s unique voice refused to be drowned out. This early defiance against musical conformity would foreshadow his path as an innovator and storyteller through song.
Sharper’s ambition led him to New York City, where he attended The American Musical and Dramatic Academy. It was here, among the city’s rich legacy of singer-songwriters, that he honed his craft. Performing across any venue that would have him – from dimly lit bars to intimate cafes – he released ‘Sonder,’ a debut EP deeply influenced by his experiences within this musical melting pot.
Yet it was Los Angeles that saw the birth of Sharper’s Florist as a solo project. Drawing on experiences playing for various local bands while completing his Fine Arts degree, Sharper infused these influences into what would become his signature indie pop/rock style. The summer of 2018 marked this transition with the release of “Day to Day,” a track embodying an indie beach vibe narrating the whimsical tale of unrequited affection.
The global lockdowns in 2020 presented both challenge and opportunity; confined but undeterred, Sharper channeled isolation into creativity, resulting in ‘Cosmic Hiding Place.’ This six-track EP delves into themes such as space exploration and heartbreak through introspective lyrics set against a lo-fi backdrop—illustrating once again his ability to craft immersive musical narratives.
The addition of drummer Andrew Crawford and bassist Philip Banks brought new dimensions to Sharper’s Florist’s soundscapes as they embarked on performances throughout Southern California. Their live shows breathed life into recordings previously confined within studio walls.
The recent release “Caroline” epitomizes this evolution—a vibrant track reminiscent of 2010s alternative rock yet distinctly marked by minimalist production. Through intertwined synths and acoustic guitars, it narrates the hopeful endeavors of a bashful protagonist amidst nightlife ambiance.
Looking ahead, collaboration with producer John Gilbert hints at further exploration into uncharted sonic territories for Sharper’s Florist. With Gilbert’s track record with artists like Mt. Joy and Adam Melchor at play, anticipation builds around how this partnership will shape their next auditory adventure.
As we await new melodies from Bradley David Sharper’s creative garden—each song a bloom grown from personal struggle and triumph—it becomes evident that behind every note lies not just talent but an indomitable spirit yearning to connect through shared human experience.
Stay tuned into this blossoming artist through Instagram, Spotify, or Facebook for updates on future releases, performances, and more insights into his journey.
Published by: Holy Minoza
