Brennon Manske

As written in April 07 addition of Stamford paper): The introduction of rising country singer/song writer Brennon Manske can begin with several phrases, but possibly best expressed in one word… “Heart.” This solitary word has always described Brennon’s personality and is now highlighted in his music career. Like the start of many greats, Brennon was at first discouraged as he chose his true passion music. Brennon states, “I love to play, I love to express myself through music, but the most rewarding benefit is finding the people that once doubted this path are now possibly my biggest supporters, and that feeling will always keep me moving forward no matter what the cost. A person has got to use everything as stepping stones even if sometimes a small piece of that stone breaks off.” His first bold move was to take a shot at Austin. “I knew at the time I didn’t have what it would take to really make the Austin scene, what I needed was the experience.” Unbeknownst to his family and friends, Manske spent a portion of his Austin life living on Ramen noodles and tuna fish, but always found energy to surround himself with experienced musicians and their words of wisdom. Some of those including open mic nights with famous Nashville star Jack Ingram and Willie Nelson’s long time friend and business partner Poodie, owner of Poodie’s Bar and Grill. Manske was forced to come back home due to a few financial situations, and really aroused his critics when he did things like spending all of his money on music equipment rather than repairing his means of transportation. Brennon found his good friend and ex Texas Tech roommate Clint Maine, and recruited experienced drummer Jimmy Garcia, the leader of the successful tejano band Viento, who agreed to help him get started until he rose to his feet. After a couple of short months, Manske and his band were running for several awards in the Readers choice awards. Brennon was nominated vocalist of the year, songwriter of the year, Duo of the year (with Maine) and the band won the Horizon award declaring them as Abilene’s top upcoming band. Brennon has since acquired music as a full time job playing 4-6 days a week, and joined up with musicians dedicated to the band and the faith in success and has shared stages with John Wolfe, Peter Dawson, Aaron Watson, Doug Moreland, Jason Boland, Jackson Taylor, Kevin Fowler, and Wade Bowen among others. With the soon to be released album Brennon Manske and Whiskey Dent’s “Luck of the Draw,” and the seemingly never ending heart that the gentleman has, his music career will only further advance. Looking back on the accomplishments thus far Manske say’s, “I’ve still got miles to go. I just thank god and the angels of lost friends and family for giving me what it took to make it this far.” Inches of miles, Brennon Manske has made it evident that the path of his music career is far from over. Brennon will open for Aaron Watson on Saturday, April 7 at the TCR Pavilion in a Benefit dance for American Cancer Society sponsored by the 80’s Ladies Relay for Life Team.