Mark Bryan, co-founder and lead guitarist of Hootie & the Blowfish, is enjoying some well-deserved time in the spotlight. While the band isn’t touring this summer, Bryan is far from slowing down.
At 58, the multi-platinum songwriter continues to chase his passion for music with his solo work and personal projects. And he couldn’t be more excited about it.
Always Driven by Music
“There’s never been a time where I thought I wouldn’t be making music,” Bryan said in a recent interview with PEOPLE. Even when Hootie & the Blowfish isn’t active, he keeps creating. “I don’t want [my songs] sitting in my computer. It drives me nuts.”
For Bryan, it’s not about becoming a solo superstar. It’s about giving songs a chance to live. With a history of writing hits like “Hold My Hand” and “Only Wanna Be with You,” Bryan has built a career helping music find its audience.
Helping Others Create Timeless Art
Over the years, Bryan has worked on soundtracks (High Times’ Potluck, A Fork in the Road) and produced music for artists like Cowboy Mouth and Patrick Davis. He says he loves helping others create “timeless art” and feels lucky to be doing what he dreamed of as a teenager.
He’ll be playing a homecoming show on June 20 at The Atlantis in Washington, DC, with his current band, Mark Bryan and the Screaming Trojans.
From Bandmate to Solo Artist
Bryan’s latest solo album Popped, released last year, reflects a new level of musical freedom. Inspired by artists like Beck and Brian Wilson, he says, “I’ve gotten to a place where if I can hear it in my head, I can make it happen.”
Being part of Hootie & the Blowfish was always a team effort, with every song shaped by group input. “Now, I don’t think that way. If it’s something I believe in, I’ll make it happen,” says Bryan, who lives in Charleston, South Carolina.
What’s Next for Hootie & the Blowfish?
Although the band’s last tour—2023’s Summer Camp with Trucks Tour—was a huge success, Bryan says it’s unclear when or if they’ll hit the road again. “I don’t think it was our last tour… but you never know.”
In the meantime, Bryan is happy continuing his creative journey. Whether writing new songs, performing with his band, or helping others bring their vision to life, he’s still doing what he loves most.
