From the tender age of 10, Brandon McPhee embarked on a musical odyssey that would shape his life and inspire countless others. Influenced and guided by his grandad Donald McPhee, Brandon’s journey with the accordion began, setting the stage for a remarkable career ahead.
Under the tuition of his uncle for under 2 years, Brandon honed his skills, mastering the accordion by ear and delving into the melodies without formal instruction or the need of sheet music. His dedication already starting to pay off, with Brandon clinching his first competition victory six months later. It was the start of many things to come.
When most are just discovering their passions, Brandon was already making waves in the music scene. His debut album ‘A Starr is Born’, recorded at the aged 11 on his record label Pan Records, showcased his prodigious talent and paid homage to his accordion idol, Will Starr. 7 years later Brandon purchased Will Starr’s accordion from Ireland.
The young virtuoso’s star continued to rise, as he charmed audiences on radio, television and live performances across the UK. From Moray Firth Radio to BBC Radio nan Gàidheal to BBC Alba to STV News to Showcase TV to TG4. Brandon’s magnetic performances captivated listeners and earned him widespread acclaim.
His prowess on the button box accordion reached its zenith with a string of victories, including Junior Accordion Champion, Button Box Champion, Royal National Mod Champion and the prestigious Jimmy Shand Shield at 17 making history being the youngest ever winner and the only button accordionist to win in 27 years.
Beyond the realm of competitions, Brandon’s music transcended borders, focusing on full time entertainment with variety concerts entertaining audiences from the Shetland Isles to the sun-soaked shores of Spain, Portugal and beyond. His collaborations with legends of Scottish and Irish country music, Foster and Allen, Robert Lovie and recently a duet with Daniel O’Donnell MBE, ‘Across The Hills of Home’ cements his status as a rising star in the genre.
Yet, Brandon’s journey wasn’t confined to the stage alone. He embraced his role as a musical ambassador, inspiring a new generation of musicians through his workshops and performances. From accolades in the Scottish Parliament to Royal audiences, including performing for King Charles III on his first visit to Caithness as King. Brandon’s impact resonated far and wide, his performances for royalty, international dignitaries, Hollywood luminaries, and at esteemed institutions like Oxford and Cambridge University underscored his universal appeal.
As his career blossomed, Brandon diversified his musical repertoire, embracing vocal training and mastering the acoustic guitar adding a new dimension to his already diverse concert. His foray into country music with Manson Grant and the Dynamos opened new avenues of expression, earning him accolades and admiration from fans worldwide.
Today, Brandon McPhee stands as a testament to the transformative power of music. With over 18 CDs and 6 DVDs, a music book of over 20 compositions, 10 self-penned songs, countless awards to his name, his legacy continues to inspire, his melodies weaving through the hearts of listeners. Through his acclaimed TV shows ‘Caithness TV’ ‘Brandon McPhee Hour’ and ‘Brandon McPhee On Air’ and countless performances, Brandon McPhee’s unwavering dedication to his craft embodies the essence of a true musical maestro, his accordion echoing with the soulful rhythms of Scotland and beyond.
MUSIC IS MY LIFE – THERE IS NO PLAN B!
His dedication to the entertainment world and work ethic has also led him into broadcasting and he hosted his own TV show ‘The Brandon McPhee Hour’ on Spotlight TV Channel previously called Keep It Country TV for over 6 years.
Brandon’s personality an experience has led to numerous appearances on TV and radio across the globe which has brought with it a large and growing international following. Over 1.6 million people viewed Brandon’s version of Ring Of Fire Live in Aberdeen and over a million on the country song Give My Love To Rose. He was recognised by Scottish Parliament twice for a Local Hero and a role model to the youth in playing an instrument.
He has performed privately for HRH The Duke of and Duchess of Rothesay also many members of the Royal Family, More recently for King Charles III’s first visit to Caithness as King – Brandon regards this as a true honour.
A Flying Scotsman, you may think, but Brandon’s success has been well earned, with one goal-to entertain and to be the best he can be. The Brandon McPhee Show, a mix of singing and accordion will be coming to town. Don’t miss your chance to catch him live when he plays at the Firgrove Hotel, Mitchelstown on Friday, 25th October at 8pm. Tickets are €22 and are available at hotel reception, phone 025-24111.
Awards are now rolling in as the industry acknowledges the voice that Brandon has introduced to an ever competitive Country Music Scene.
