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Bruno Major
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Key Information
Bruno Major (born 15 July 1988)[2] is a British singer-songwriter, guitarist and producer known for his blend of jazz-inflected pop, intimate lyricism and emotive vocal style. He has released three studio albums - "A Song For Every Moon" (2017), "To Let a Good Thing Die" (2020) and "Columbo" (2023) [3] and has amassed over 2 billion streams worldwide. [4] Major has sold out multiple headline tours across North America, Europe, Asia and Australia. [5]
Career
[edit]Early Work and "A Song For Every Moon" (2014-2018)
In 2014, Major released his debut EP "Live" on Virgin Records.[6] After parting ways with the label, he launched a self-directed project in 2016 to write, record and release one song every month for a year. The project culminated in his critically acclaimed debut album "A Song For Every Moon" (2017), an R&B-tinged collection that established his reputation for intimate, narrative songwriting. [7][2][8]
Following the release, Major embarked on extensive touring, including a headline run across North America, multiple sold-out shows in Europe, and support slots on the Sam Smith UK arena tour. He made his US television debut performing Easily on The Late Late Show with James Corden in February 2018,[2][8] and appeared at Bonnaroo Music Festival the same year. [8] His first Asia tour followed in late 2018. [8][9][10]
"To Let a Good Thing Die" (2019-2022)
Major released his second album "To Let a Good Thing Die" in June 2020. The album included collaborations with producer Finneas and featured fan favourites such as "Nothing" and "The Most Beautiful Thing."
"Easily" from his debut album was certified Platinum in the United States and Gold in Canada and Australia[11] [12] while "Nothing" was certified gold in the United States and charted internationally, reaching No. 63 on the Irish Singles Chart [13][14]
"Columbo" and Continued Success (2023 - Present)
In 2023, Major returned with his third studio album "Columbo", released on 14th July. Written largely on acoustic guitar and produced alongside longtime collaborator Finlay Robson (Phairo), "Columbo" was praised for its lyrical depth and musical range. Inspired by a period of personal transformation and self-reflection during and after the COVID-19 pandemic, the record explored themes of identity, love, loss and self-discovery. [15][16]
The album was preceded by the singles "We Were Never Really Friends" and "Columbo" and features highlights such as "Tears in Rain", "Tell Her" and "You Take the High Road". Reinforcing Major's reputation as a captivating live performer, the release was followed by another sold-out global tour spanning 54 cities across 22 countries and drawing over 70,000 fans throughout Southeast Asia, North America, Europe, Australia and East Asia.[17]
Musical Style and Influences
[edit]Major’s sound blends elements of jazz, soul, and folk-pop, often built around intricate guitar work and introspective lyricism. He cites Nick Drake, and Chet Baker among his key influences.[18] His songwriting approach emphasises lyrical substance and musical emotionality, often focusing on the interplay between words and melody.
Personal life
[edit]Major is originally from Northampton, England.[9] He moved to London in 2011.[1] Originally a jazz musician, he began his career as a session guitarist at age 16 for artists including Lalah Hathaway. Major also studied for a degree in jazz at Leeds Conservatoire (formally Leeds College of Music).[10][19]
He is the older brother of Dominic 'Dot' Major of London Grammar.
Discography
[edit]Albums
[edit]| Title | Details |
|---|---|
| A Song for Every Moon |
|
| To Let a Good Thing Die |
|
| Columbo |
|
EPs
[edit]| Title | Details |
|---|---|
| Live |
|
Singles
[edit]| Title | Year | Peak chart positions | Certifications | Album | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UK Ind. [20] |
IRE [21] | ||||
| "Home" (Live) | 2013 | — | — | Live | |
| "Wouldn't Mean a Thing" | 2016 | — | — | A Song for Every Moon | |
| "There's Little Left" | — | — | |||
| "The First Thing You See" | — | — | |||
| "Easily" | — | — | |||
| "Home" | — | — | |||
| "Like Someone in Love" | 2017 | — | — | ||
| "Just the Same" | — | — | |||
| "Second Time" | — | — | |||
| "Fair-Weather Friend" | — | — | |||
| "Places We Won't Walk" | — | — | |||
| "Cold Blood" | — | — | |||
| "On Our Own" | — | — | |||
| "I Think It Must Be Christmas" | — | — | Non-album single | ||
| "Old Fashioned" | 2019 | — | — | To Let A Good Thing Die | |
| "Nothing" | 30 | 63 |
| ||
| "Tapestry" | — | — | |||
| "Figment of My Mind" | 2020 | — | — | ||
| "We Were Never Really Friends" | 2023 | — | — | Columbo | |
| "The Show Must Go On" | — | — | |||
Appears on
[edit]| Year | Artist | Album | Song | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2014 | The Giver (film): Music Collection | "Children" | Performer | |
| 2016 | Ward Thomas | Cartwheels | "Good On You" | Guitar |
| "Dirt and Gold" | ||||
| "Proof" | ||||
| 2017 | MJ Cole | "Shelter" | Feature | |
| 2018 | SG Lewis | Dark EP | "Dreaming" | Feature |
| 2019 | Scary Pockets | Best of 2018 | Guitar | |
| 2020 | Lianne La Havas | Lianne La Havas | "Read My Mind" | Guitar, Piano |
| 2021 | Eloise | Somewhere in-Between | Performer, Arranger | |
| 2023 | Acantha Lang | Beautiful Dreams | "Eventually" | Performer |
| 2025 | Adam Melchor | The Diary of Living | The Diary of Living | Performer |
Writing, producing
[edit]| Year | Artist | Album | Song | Credit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2016 | Liv Dawson | "Tapestry" | Writer, producer | |
| Open Your Eyes | "Still" | Writer, producer | ||
| "Open Your Eyes" | Writer | |||
| SG Lewis | Yours EP | "Yours" | Writer | |
| "Holding Back" | Writer | |||
| "Gone" | Writer | |||
| 2017 | Jack Vallier | Rebekah | "Good for You" | Writer, producer |
| "The Boy You Knew" | Writer, producer | |||
| SG Lewis | "Times We Had" | Writer | ||
| Sarah Close | Caught Up | "Perfect After All" | Writer, producer, Mixed by | |
| XamVolo | All The Sweetness On The Surface | "Old Soul" | Writer, producer | |
| Liv Dawson | "Somewhere Good" | Writer, producer | ||
| Eliza | A Real Romantic | "Alone & Unafraid" | Writer, producer | |
| Tom Chaplin | Twelve Tales of Christmas | "Say Goodbye" | Writer | |
| 2018 | Aquilo | ii | "The Road Less Wandered" | Writer |
| Eloise | "You, Dear" | Producer | ||
| Linden Jay, Roméo Testa, Serious Klein | You Should've Known | "God is Love" | Producer | |
| SG Lewis | Dark EP | "Dreaming" | Writer | |
| Eloise | "TTCL" | Producer | ||
| 2019 | MJ Cole | Waking Up EP | "Mercy" | Writer |
| "Serotonin" | Writer | |||
| Eloise | "Left Side" | Producer | ||
| SG Lewis | Dawn EP | "Rest" | Writer | |
| Tori Kelly | Inspired by True Events | "Sorry Would Go a Long Way" | Writer | |
| "Before the Dawn" | Writer | |||
| 2020 | Lianne La Havas | Lianne La Havas | "Read My Mind" | Writer |
| 2021 | Eloise | Somewhere In-Between EP | Producer | |
| 2025 | Adam Melchor | The Diary of Living | "The Diary of Living" | Writer |
| Eloise | Chet Baker Reimagined | "That Old Feeling" | Producer |
Tour
[edit]Headlining
[edit]North American Tour (2018)
[edit]| Date | City | Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| North America | |||
| 16 February 2018 | Seattle | United States | Barboza |
| 17 February 2018 | Vancouver | Canada | Fox Cabaret |
| 18 February 2018 | Portland | United States | Doug Fir |
| 20 February 2018 | San Francisco | The Chapel | |
| 21 February 2018 | Los Angeles | Masonic Lodge | |
| 23 February 2018 | Santa Ana | Constellation Room | |
| 24 February 2018 | San Diego | The Casbah | |
| 27 February 2018 | Chicago | Schubas Tavern | |
| 28 February 2018 | Toronto | Canada | The Drake |
| 1 March 2018 | Montreal | Mini Campus | |
| 2 March 2018 | Boston | United States | Great Scott |
| 3 March 2018 | Philadelphia | Johnny Brenda's | |
| 4 March 2018 | Washington, D.C. | Song Byrd | |
| 6 March 2018 | New York City | Bowery Ballroom | |
| 25 May 2018 | San Jose | The Ritz | |
| 26 May 2018 | Sacramento | Holy Diver | |
| 28 May 2018 | Salt Lake City | Kilby Court | |
| 29 May 2018 | Denver | Larimer Lounge | |
| 31 May 2018 | Minneapolis | 7th Street Entry | |
| 1 June 2018 | Madison | High Noon Saloon | |
| 2 June 2018 | Detroit | Marble Bar | |
| 3 June 2018 | Toronto | Canada | The Great Hall |
| 4 June 2018 | Pittsburgh | United States | Club Cafe |
| 5 June 2018 | Washington D.C. | U Street Music Hall | |
| 7 June 2018 | Charlotte | Neighborhood Theatre | |
| 8 June 2018 | Atlanta | Aisle 5 | |
| 10 June 2018 | Manchester | The Bonnaroo Music & Arts Festival | |
| 11 June 2018 | Houston | White Oak Music Hall | |
| 12 June 2018 | Austin | Stubb's Indoors | |
| 13 June 2018 | Dallas | Three Links | |
| 15 June 2018 | Phoenix | Valley Bar | |
| 16 June 2018 | Las Vegas | Bunk House | |
Asia Tour (2018)
[edit]| Date | City | Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asia | |||
| 7 October 2018 | Tokyo | Japan | Shindaita Fever |
| 8 October 2018 | Yamagata | Hello Indie Festival | |
| 11 October 2018 | Seoul | South Korea | Rolling Hall |
| 12 October 2018 | Beijing | China | Yugong Yishan |
| 13 October 2018 | Shanghai | Yuyintang | |
| 14 October 2018 | Hong Kong | Mom Livehouse | |
| 17 October 2018 | Singapore | Decline | |
| 18 October 2018 | |||
| 20 October 2018 | Bangkok | Thailand | Noma |
| 21 October 2018 | Kuala Lumpur | Malaysia | The Bee |
| 23 October 2018 | Manila | Philippines | Karpos Live |
| 24 October 2018 | Jakarta | Indonesia | Queen's Head |
Tour of Planet Earth (2023)
[edit]| Date | City | Country | Venue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asia | |||
| 7 August 2023 | Tokyo | Japan | WWWX |
| 8 August 2023 | |||
| 10 August 2023 | Seoul | South Korea | Yes24 Live Hall |
| 11 August 2023 | |||
| 13 August 2023 | Bangkok | Thailand | Voice Space |
| 15 August 2023 | Manila | Philippines | New renter Theater |
| 17 August 2023 | Singapore | Capitol Theatre | |
| 19 August 2023 | Jakarta | Indonesia | GBK Basketball Hall |
| 20 August 2023 | Kuala Lumpur | Malaysia | Zepp Kuala Lumpur |
| 22 August 2023 | Shanghai | China | Bandi Namco Dream Hall |
| 24 August 2023 | Guangzhou | Mao Livehouse | |
| 24 August 2024 | Jakarta | Indonesia | LaLaLa Festival |
| 27 August 2024 | Chengdu | China | Full House |
| 29 August 2024 | Beijing | China | Full Of |
| 31 August 2024 | Shanghai | China | CP Hall |
| 2 September 2024 | Tokyo | Japan | Zepp Shinjuku |
| 3 September 2024 | Osaka | Japan | Umeda Club Quattro |
| 5 September 2024 | Taipei | Taiwan | Zepp New Taipei |
| 7 September 2024 | Manila | Philippines | PICC Plenary Hall |
| 8 September 2024 | Hong Kong | Tungo Po | |
| 11 September 2024 | Manila | Philippines | PICC Plenary Hall |
| North America | |||
| 4 September 2023 | Denver | United States | Ogden Theatre |
| 5 September 2023 | Salt Lake City | The Depot | |
| 7 September 2023 | Vancouver | Canada | Commodore Ballroom |
| 8 September 2023 | Seattle | United States | The Showbox |
| 9 September 2023 | Portland | McMenamins Crystal Ballroom | |
| 11 September 2023 | San Francisco | The Warfield | |
| 13 September 2023 | Los Angeles | The Wiltern | |
| 14 September 2023 | |||
| 15 September 2023 | San Diego | The Observatory North Park | |
| 16 September 2023 | Phoenix, Arizona | The Van Buren | |
| 18 September 2023 | Dallas | Granada Theater | |
| 19 September 2023 | Austin | Mohawk | |
| 22 September 2023 | Atlanta | The Masquerade | |
| 23 September 2023 | Nashville | Brooklyn Bowl Nashville | |
| 25 September 2023 | Chicago | The Vic Theatre | |
| 26 September 2023 | Toronto | Canada | History |
| 29 September 2023 | New York City | United States | Terminal 5 |
| 30 September 2023 | Boston | Roadrunner | |
| 1 October 2023 | Washington, D.C. | Howard Theatre | |
| Europe | |||
| 8 November 2023 | Cologne | Germany | Club Bahnhof Ehrenfeld |
| 9 November 2023 | Berlin | Kesselhaus | |
| 11 November 2023 | Antwerp | Belgium | Trix |
| 12 November 2023 | Amsterdam | Netherlands | Melkweg |
| 14 November 2023 | Paris | France | Le Trabendo |
| 17 November 2023 | Glasgow | United Kingdom | Saint Luke's |
| 18 November 2023 | Manchester | Academy 2 | |
| 21 November 2023 | Dublin | Ireland | Vicar Street |
| 23 November 2023 | London | United Kingdom | O2 Forum Kentish Town |
| Oceania | |||
| 13 January 2024 | Auckland | New Zealand | Powerstation |
| 15 January 2024 | Sydney | Australia | Enmore Theatre |
| 17 January 2024 | Melbourne | Forum Theatre | |
| 19 January 2024 | Brisbane | The Tivoli | |
| 20 January 2024 | Adelaide | Hindley Street Music Hall | |
| 22 January 2024 | Perth | The Rechabite | |
References
[edit]- ^ a b Taylor, Trey (19 March 2018). "BRUNO MAJOR'S MUSIC IS DESIGNED TO MAKE YOU CRY". Interview Magazine. Retrieved 5 December 2018.
- ^ a b c Feldberg, Isaac (1 March 2018). "Bruno Major aims for the stars". Boston Globe. Retrieved 30 November 2018.
- ^ https://www.last.fm/music/Bruno+Major/+albums
- ^ https://www.musicbusinessworldwide.com/the-other-songs-partners-with-universal-music-publishing-group-signs-global-deal-with-british-singer-songwriter-bruno-major12/
- ^ https://www.concertarchives.org/bands/bruno-major
- ^ Oswald, Angelica (21 February 2014). "Bruno Major: The next big thing". Cliche Magazine. Retrieved 30 November 2018.
- ^ "Bruno Major on How He Found Success as an Independent Artist". awal.com. Retrieved 30 November 2018.
- ^ a b c d Machin, Jennifer (20 March 2018). "Meet Bruno Major, British R&B Singer-Songwriter & Sam Smith Tourmate". Billboard. Retrieved 30 November 2018.
- ^ a b O'Connor, Roisin (21 March 2018). "Bruno Major shares stunning video for 'Places We Won't Walk' with footage from Jan Van Ijken short film". The Independent. Retrieved 5 December 2018.
- ^ a b Wood, James (18 April 2018). "Guitarist Bruno Major Talks Songwriting, Touring with Sam Smith". Guitar World. Retrieved 5 December 2018.
- ^ a b "ARIA Charts – Accreditations – 2021" (PDF). Australian Recording Industry Association. Retrieved 9 February 2022.
- ^ https://shorefire.com/releases/entry/bruno-major-new-album-to-let-a-good-thing-die-june-5th-awal
- ^ https://www.riaa.com/gold-platinum/?tab_active=default-award&se=bruno+major#search_section
- ^ "IRMA – Irish Charts". Irish Recorded Music Association. Retrieved 13 November 2021.
- ^ https://www.clashmusic.com/reviews/bruno-major-columbo/
- ^ https://www.soundoflife.com/blogs/mixtape/bruno-major-interview
- ^ https://www.soundoflife.com/blogs/mixtape/bruno-major-interview
- ^ https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/bruno-major-tbt-mixtape-playlist-interview-8550907/
- ^ "BRUNO MAJOR & THE PERFECT IMPERFECTIONS (INTERVIEW)". Urban Soul. 14 November 2016. Retrieved 5 December 2018.
- ^ Official Independent Singles Chart positions:
- "Nothing": "Official Independent Singles Chart, 11 November 2021 - 17 November 2021". Official Charts. Retrieved 11 August 2023.
- ^ Irish Singles Chart positions:
- "Nothing": "Singles: Week 45 2021, Week Ending 12 Nov 2021". Irish Charts. Retrieved 11 August 2023.
- ^ a b "Gold & Platinum". RIAA. Retrieved 26 May 2024.
- ^ "Gold/Platinum". Music Canada. 11 August 2020. Retrieved 26 May 2024.
Bruno Major
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Family and childhood
Bruno Major was born on 15 July 1988 in Northampton, England.[1] He grew up in a musical household where his father, a guitarist, kept instruments readily available, fostering an early environment rich in creative exploration.[2] His younger brother, Dominic "Dot" Major, later became the drummer for the indie pop band London Grammar.[6] Major's interest in music ignited at age seven when he began experimenting with his father's guitars, often finding them too large for his small hands until his father gifted him a more suitable instrument.[7] This sparked a passion that led him to skip school regularly to tinker with various instruments at home, prioritizing self-directed musical play over formal routines.[2] During his childhood, Major was exposed to a diverse array of sounds, including classical music, jazz, and the classic American songbook, which shaped his foundational appreciation for melody and harmony.[6][7] These influences, combined with the familial emphasis on music, laid the groundwork for his lifelong dedication to the craft.Education and musical training
Major began developing his musical skills intensively from a young age, practicing guitar for six hours a day after receiving his first instrument at seven, which built his technical proficiency over years of dedicated effort.[8] In his teens, he shifted his focus specifically to jazz, immersing himself in the genre's complexities while beginning to perform professionally as a session guitarist starting at age 16.[8][9] This early entry into session work allowed him to hone his abilities alongside established artists in jazz circles, laying the groundwork for his formal training.[3] To further his education, Major enrolled in a jazz degree program at Leeds Conservatoire, formerly known as Leeds College of Music, where he absorbed guitar techniques, classical elements, and jazz principles until around age 21.[8][3] He graduated from the program circa 2008, marking the completion of his structured academic training in music.[10] Skipping traditional academic pursuits in favor of music, Major's time at Leeds emphasized performance and improvisation, skills he credits for shaping his versatile style.[2] Following graduation, Major relocated to London around 2008–2011, transitioning into the city's vibrant jazz scene as a session guitarist.[8][10] In this environment, he continued building his professional experience through gigs and collaborations, bridging his academic foundation with practical application before pursuing songwriting more intensely.[3] This period solidified his expertise in jazz guitar while exposing him to broader musical influences in London's diverse performance venues.[9]Career
Early career and breakthrough
After completing his jazz degree at Leeds Conservatoire, Bruno Major moved to London in 2011 to pursue a professional music career, where he initially worked as a session guitarist for various artists.[8][3] This role, which he had begun at age 16, allowed him to hone his skills in the city's vibrant music scene while performing with established acts and building industry connections.[8][11] At age 23, Major signed with Virgin Records (part of EMI), which provided opportunities such as co-writing sessions with admired artists and recording an album in Los Angeles.[12] However, in early 2016, the label dropped him, deeming the material "unreleasable" despite his pride in the work.[12][8] This setback prompted a shift to independence; he partnered with AWAL for distribution later that year, retaining ownership of his masters and taking full creative control.[2][13] Major's breakthrough came with the release of his breakthrough single "Easily" in November 2016, self-produced and initially shared organically via SoundCloud as part of a personal challenge to write and release one song per full moon.[14] The track gained early traction through grassroots sharing and playlist placements on Spotify, eventually surpassing 10 million streams within months and contributing to his growing online presence.[13] Its intimate, jazz-inflected balladry later fueled virality on platforms like TikTok, where user-generated content amplified its emotional appeal, leading to over 400 million global streams by 2025.[15][16] Prior to "Easily," Major had released his debut EP Live in 2014 under Virgin Records, featuring acoustic performances that showcased his falsetto and guitar work, though it received limited promotion.[17] Following the label split, his 2017 project A Song for Every Moon—an album compiling 12 monthly singles, including "The First Thing You See"—further established his sound and cultivated a dedicated fanbase through intimate live performances in venues across London, New York, and Europe, often selling out small shows and fostering direct connections with audiences.[18][19][13]Album releases
Bruno Major's debut studio album, A Song for Every Moon, was released on August 31, 2017, as a concept album comprising 12 tracks, each corresponding to a lunar phase and recorded one per month over the course of a year.[20] Self-produced by Major in his London flat, the album explores themes of love, introspection, and self-discovery through stripped-back R&B and folk arrangements, featuring intimate vocals and minimal instrumentation like acoustic guitar and piano.[21] The track "Easily" achieved viral success on social media platforms, contributing to the album's breakthrough.[20] Critics praised its emotional vulnerability and diary-like progression, with NME describing it as a "stunning" project that opens Major up in rare artistic honesty.[20] The album has amassed over 860 million streams on Spotify as of November 2025.[22] Major's second studio album, To Let a Good Thing Die, arrived on June 5, 2020, via the independent label AWAL during the COVID-19 pandemic, delving into themes of relationships dissolving, heartbreak, and existential reflection.[23] Co-produced by Major and Phairo in a professional studio setting—a departure from the bedroom production of his debut—the record incorporates lush strings, guest musicians, and subtle beats alongside piano and guitar-driven ballads, creating a tapestry of soft soul and romantic elegance.[24] Atwood Magazine lauded its "breathtaking poetry and sound," highlighting the lyrical intimacy and timeless narratives of human connection that blend jazz-inflected pop with emotive vulnerability.[25] By November 2025, the album had surpassed 859 million streams on Spotify, underscoring its enduring appeal amid the isolation of the pandemic era.[22] The third studio album, Columbo, released on July 21, 2023, draws inspiration from Major's experiences of pandemic-induced isolation and personal growth, with its title nodding to the introspective detective series Columbo.[26] Produced in collaboration with a full band including guitars, keys, and synths, the 12-track effort shifts toward guitar-centric arrangements and ethereal instrumentation, emphasizing themes of reflection, loss, and reawakening through nostalgic yet forward-looking songcraft.[27] Reviews celebrated its sentimental lyricism and jazzy smoothness, with Atwood Magazine calling it a "masterclass in candor" for its soothing blend of soulful pop and alternative rock elements.[27] As of November 2025, Columbo had accumulated over 57 million streams on Spotify.[22]Independent success
Following the release of his 2020 album To Let a Good Thing Die, Bruno Major solidified his position as an independent artist through his ongoing partnership with AWAL, a services-based label that granted him full creative control and ownership of his masters. This arrangement enabled him to prioritize artistic decisions without traditional label interference, fostering a sustainable career model focused on direct fan engagement and global distribution.[2] Major's music achieved significant commercial traction, with his catalog surpassing 1 billion streams on Spotify by mid-2023 and accumulating over 2 billion streams worldwide across platforms including Apple Music by the end of that year.[16][28] Key tracks like "Nothing" and "Easily" drove this growth, exemplifying his ability to connect with listeners through intimate, jazz-inflected pop. His live performances underscored this success, as he sold out multiple headline tours across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, including high-demand venues in major cities.[28] These shows highlighted his rising international appeal and the effectiveness of his independent strategy in building a dedicated global fanbase. No major new tours have been announced as of November 2025. Social media played a pivotal role in amplifying his reach, particularly on TikTok, where older tracks experienced a resurgence between 2020 and 2022; "Nothing," released in 2020, went viral in 2021 with millions of user-generated videos, introducing his music to new audiences and boosting streams exponentially.Musical style and influences
Genre and sound
Bruno Major's music is primarily characterized by jazz-inflected pop infused with R&B and soul elements, often driven by both acoustic and electric guitar work that provides a foundational texture to his compositions.[28][1][29] This blend creates a modern yet nostalgic sound, where intricate guitar lines weave through subtle rhythmic grooves, evoking a sense of introspection and emotional depth.[30] His arrangements frequently incorporate feathery acoustic strums alongside understated electronic beats, allowing the guitar to remain central while supporting broader genre fusions.[29] A hallmark of Major's signature sound is the intimate, confessional lyricism delivered over minimalistic arrangements that prioritize emotional vulnerability. These often feature piano accents, delicate strings, and subtle jazz harmonies, fostering a chamber-like atmosphere that enhances the personal narrative of his songs.[28][31] For instance, tracks like "Easily" exemplify this approach with sparse instrumentation that spotlights lyrical honesty.[29] His vocal style—a warm, emotive baritone with occasional falsetto flourishes—further emphasizes themes of vulnerability, blending soulful phrasing with jazz-inspired improvisation for a raw, connective delivery.[30] Major's sound has evolved from the jazz purity of his early releases toward greater pop accessibility in subsequent albums, reflecting a shift in production aesthetics. His debut album, A Song for Every Moon (2017), embraced lo-fi home recordings that captured unpolished, bedroom-recorded intimacy, rooted in acoustic guitar and minimal jazz structures.[31] Later works, such as To Let a Good Thing Die (2020) and Columbo (2023), transitioned to more polished studio environments, incorporating refined electronic elements and layered harmonies while retaining core jazz and soul influences for broader appeal.[1][32] This progression maintains his confessional essence but enhances sonic clarity and production sophistication.[30]Key influences
Bruno Major's musical influences are deeply rooted in jazz, drawing from his formal studies at Leeds Conservatoire, where he earned a degree in jazz and learned songwriting through analyzing standards from the Great American Songbook, including works by Jerome Kern, Cole Porter, and Rodgers and Hammerstein.[33][34] This period shaped his approach to melody and harmony, with specific admiration for jazz pianist and guitarist Joe Pass on guitar technique and trumpeter Chet Baker's intimate vocal style.[35][36] He has also cited jazz legend Nina Simone as a key influence.[2] His broader inspirations encompass soul and R&B production pioneers like J Dilla and D’Angelo, alongside contemporary innovators such as James Blake, whose sonic palettes influenced Major's self-taught recording methods.[35] Songwriting heroes include Randy Newman for narrative depth, as well as Billy Joel and Carole King for their emotive craftsmanship.[35][37] Additionally, rock icon Jimi Hendrix has shaped his guitar playing.[2] These elements trace back to his childhood, sparked by tinkering with his father's guitars from age seven, fostering an early passion for music that evolved into a lifelong pursuit.[35][2] Personal experiences have also profoundly impacted Major's creative process, particularly the COVID-19 pandemic's isolation, which enabled the introspective songwriting for his 2023 album Columbo during a period of self-reflection and creative freedom.[37] This ethos of independence was cemented earlier when he was dropped by Virgin Records, prompting him to self-produce and release music on his own terms, starting with a monthly song series that culminated in his 2017 debut A Song for Every Moon.[2][35]Personal life
Family
Bruno Major maintains close ties with his parents, particularly evident during the COVID-19 pandemic when he returned to their home in Northampton, England, after years of limited family time due to touring and recording commitments. This period allowed him to reconnect meaningfully with his parents, providing a space for reflection and recharge amid global lockdowns.[38][39][40] His mother has played a significant role in his personal and professional resilience, offering pivotal advice on perseverance during a low point in his career. After being dropped by a major record label around 2014, Major nearly abandoned music altogether, but a conversation with his mother in the car reframed his outlook; she likened a fulfilling life and career to a tapestry, woven from diverse threads over time, emphasizing patience and persistence. This guidance inspired his 2019 single "Tapestry" and helped sustain his independent path forward.[41][42] Major shares a musical family environment with his younger brother, Dominic "Dot" Major, the drummer for the indie pop band London Grammar, and their father, a guitarist who fostered early interest in music at home. This sibling bond has offered mutual support in their respective careers within the industry.[43][6][44] In his extended family, Major honors his late grandmother through dedicated songs that explore themes of loss and reflection. He wrote "On Our Own" in 2017 immediately after her passing, having been present in the room shortly before her death, capturing the emotional weight of the moment. Similarly, "Tears in Rain (For Granny)" from his 2023 album Columbo serves as a tribute to her memory, underscoring the enduring influence of family on his songwriting.[43][45]Residence and lifestyle
Bruno Major was born and raised in Northampton, England, where he spent his early years immersed in a musical family environment. In 2011, he relocated to London to immerse himself in the city's vibrant music scene, initially working as a session guitarist while honing his skills after studying jazz at Leeds Conservatoire. This move marked a pivotal shift, allowing him to transition from local performances to broader opportunities in the industry, though he has maintained strong ties to his Northampton roots.[11] As an independent artist, Major's lifestyle revolves around self-directed creativity, often centered in modest home setups that facilitate intimate songwriting and recording sessions. For his 2023 album Columbo, he converted a bedroom into a makeshift studio, handling production, instrumentation, and mixing largely on his own to preserve artistic control. He frequently draws inspiration from such personal spaces, balancing rigorous routines of daily writing—typically on piano or guitar—with periods of disciplined mental focus, including gym sessions and reduced social outings to channel his energy into music.[8][19][46] Major incorporates countryside retreats into his routine for rejuvenation and reflection, particularly during challenging times. In 2020, amid the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned to his family's home in the British countryside near Northampton, where the serene setting—with its gardens and open spaces—fostered introspection and reconnection with loved ones, influencing his perspective on life and creativity without any reported major health concerns. This period emphasized mindfulness practices, such as exercising and contemplative writing, which helped him navigate global uncertainties. He occasionally visits the family home for similar breaks, blending urban professional life with rural respite.[47][8][34] Beyond music, Major's interests reflect a low-key, introspective approach to downtime. He is an avid fan of the classic TV detective series Columbo, starring Peter Falk, which directly inspired the naming of his 1981 Mercedes SL car—affectionately dubbed Columbo after its resemblance to Falk's iconic trench coat—and extended to his album title, symbolizing themes of observation and subtlety in his work. His social media presence remains relatively understated, focusing on occasional updates about music and tours rather than frequent personal shares, though he amplified online interactions during the pandemic to connect with fans through live performances and behind-the-scenes glimpses.[8][34][48]Discography
Studio albums
Bruno Major has released three studio albums, all issued through the independent label AWAL. His debut full-length effort, A Song for Every Moon, was released on 31 August 2017 and comprises 12 tracks originally issued as monthly singles, forming a conceptual narrative inspired by the lunar cycle. The album marked Major's transition from self-released material to a structured project, emphasizing his introspective songwriting style. His second album, To Let a Good Thing Die, arrived on 5 June 2020 amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, featuring 10 tracks that delve into themes of relationships and personal growth.[49] Produced during lockdown, it highlighted Major's ability to craft emotionally resonant music in isolation. Major's third studio album, Columbo, was released on 21 July 2023 and includes 12 tracks exploring reflective and autobiographical themes drawn from his life experiences.[26] It has garnered significant streaming attention, contributing to Major's overall catalog exceeding 2 billion global streams across platforms.[50]Extended plays
Bruno Major released his debut extended play, Live, on January 1, 2014, through Virgin Records. The four-track EP features live recordings of "The First Thing You See," "Home," "Old Fashioned," and a cover of Frank Ocean's "Bad Religion," highlighting his classical guitar background and early jazz-influenced sound with intimate, acoustic arrangements.[17][51] This limited-release project served as an initial showcase for Major's songwriting, though it achieved modest streaming success and limited distribution following his departure from the label later that year.[52] The EP acted as a foundational testing ground for Major's evolving style, bridging his classical roots toward the pop sensibilities that defined his subsequent work. Tracks like "The First Thing You See" demonstrated his emotive vocal delivery and lyrical focus on love and vulnerability, elements that carried forward into his 2017 debut album A Song for Every Moon. Despite its niche reach, the release garnered attention in jazz and singer-songwriter circles, accumulating hundreds of thousands of streams over time on platforms like Spotify.Singles
Bruno Major's singles career began with his self-released monthly tracks in 2016 and 2017, which built his independent following through intimate, jazz-inflected pop songs. His breakthrough came with "Easily," a standout from this period that gained widespread acclaim for its emotive guitar work and lyrics about perseverance in love. Released as a single on November 25, 2016, it achieved RIAA Platinum certification in the United States, signifying over 1 million units sold or streamed, and has amassed over 425 million streams on Spotify as of November 2025.[53][54] Following the compilation of his monthly releases into the 2017 album A Song For Every Moon, Major continued issuing standalone singles that highlighted his songwriting depth. "Like Someone in Love," released on January 31, 2017, offered a tender cover of the jazz standard, showcasing his vocal warmth and acoustic style. Later, "Nothing," issued on September 12, 2019, captured the quiet joy of domestic romance and earned RIAA Gold certification in the US for exceeding 500,000 units. It peaked at No. 30 on the UK Official Independent Singles Chart in November 2021 and has over 470 million Spotify streams as of November 2025.[55][56][57][58] In 2020, amid the release of his second album To Let a Good Thing Die, Major dropped "The Most Beautiful Thing" on May 1, 2020, a duet with his mother Evelyn that celebrated familial bonds and resonated during the global pandemic with its heartfelt simplicity. The song has garnered over 164 million Spotify streams as of November 2025.[59][60] Major's post-2020 output marked a return after a recording hiatus, aligning with his third album Columbo. "We Were Never Really Friends," released on May 5, 2023, explored the ambiguity of past relationships with introspective lyrics and subtle production. It was followed by "Tell Her" on June 16, 2023, a poignant plea for closure in faded love, and "Trajectories" on July 21, 2023, which delved into themes of separation and memory with orchestral elements. These singles, tied loosely to the album's narrative, demonstrated Major's evolution toward more layered emotional storytelling while maintaining his signature acoustic intimacy.[61][62][63] In 2024, Major released "Remember Me (Amazon Music Original)", a cover of the song from the film Coco, exclusively on Amazon Music on April 5, 2024.[64]| Single Title | Release Date | Chart Peak (UK Independent Singles) | Certifications (US RIAA) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Easily | November 25, 2016 | N/A | Platinum |
| Like Someone in Love | January 31, 2017 | N/A | None |
| Nothing | September 12, 2019 | No. 30 (2021) | Gold |
| The Most Beautiful Thing | May 1, 2020 | N/A | None |
| We Were Never Really Friends | May 5, 2023 | N/A | None |
| Tell Her | June 16, 2023 | N/A | None |
| Trajectories | July 21, 2023 | N/A | None |
| Remember Me (Amazon Music Original) | April 5, 2024 | N/A | None |
