Brad Roberts: The Enigmatic Frontman Behind Crash Test Dummies
Crash Test Dummies is a Canadian alternative rock band that was formed in 1988. The group is known for their distinctive voice of their lead singer, Brad Roberts. Brad’s baritone voice sets the band apart from others in the music industry. In this blog post, we will explore the life, career, and music of Brad Roberts in a storytelling format.
Early Life
Brad Roberts was born on January 10, 1964, in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Brad spent most of his childhood in the province of Manitoba with his parents, who were both teachers. He grew up in a musical home, and his parents would frequently play Broadway music on their piano.
When Brad was 12 years old, he started playing the guitar after his parents bought him an acoustic one. Brad taught himself to play chords, and soon enough, he began writing his songs.
Crash Test Dummies
Brad Roberts formed the Crash Test Dummies with his music groupmates in 1988. The band released their first album in 1991, titled “The Ghosts That Haunt Me.” The album did well in Canada, but it was their second album, “God Shuffled His Feet,” that propelled them to international fame. The album was released in 1993 and sold over 5 million copies worldwide.
The Enigmatic Frontman
Brad was the lead vocalist of the band, and his raspy baritone voice was distinctive. He often wrote songs with unconventional lyrics that had hidden meanings. Brad drew on art, literature, and nature for inspiration to write the songs. Brad’s enigmatic and cryptic personality made him an intriguing figure to fans of the band.
The Music of Brad Roberts and Crash Test Dummies
Brad Roberts wrote most of the songs for the Crash Test Dummies. His songs often touched on weighty themes like religion, death, and relationships. He also employed dark humor in his lyrics, which added to the charm of the songs. Some of the band’s popular songs include “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm,” “God Shuffled His Feet,” and “Superman’s Song.”
Beyond Crash Test Dummies
While Brad Roberts is known for his work with Crash Test Dummies, he has also pursued a solo career. He released his first solo album in 2000, titled “The Maid Needs a Maid,” and the second one came two years later, entitled ‘Crash Test Dude.’ Besides music, Brad is also a painter, and some of his art pieces have been sold in an art gallery.
FAQs
1. Who is Brad Roberts?
Brad Roberts is the lead vocalist of the Canadian alternative rock band, Crash Test Dummies.
2. What is the distinctive feature of Brad Roberts’ voice?
Brad Roberts has a raspy baritone voice that sets him apart from other vocalists in the music industry.
3. What themes does Brad Roberts touch on in his music?
Brad Roberts writes songs that often address themes such as religion, death, and relationships.
4. Has Brad Roberts worked on any solo projects?
Yes, Brad Roberts has released two solo albums in his career.
5. What other interests does Brad Roberts have besides music?
Brad Roberts is a painter and has sold some of his art pieces in an art gallery.
6. What is the most popular song by Crash Test Dummies?
Crash Test Dummies’ most popular song is “Mmm Mmm Mmm Mmm.”
7. When did Brad Roberts start playing the guitar?
Brad Roberts began playing the guitar at the age of 12 after his parents bought him an acoustic guitar.
Conclusion
Brad Roberts is a distinctive figure in the music industry, known for his work with the Crash Test Dummies. His raspy baritone voice and unconventional songwriting make him an intriguing figure for fans of the band. Besides music, Brad also has an interest in painting and has released two solo albums. If you’ve never heard of Brad Roberts or the Crash Test Dummies, check out their music and see what makes them so unique.