Ep 60: From Studio Brat to Nashville Stage: Brendan Wiencek on Growing Up in the Arts and Making a Life in Music

What does it look like when a kid who grew up dancing, doing gymnastics, and playing guitar in a performing arts studio ends up playing professionally on Broadway in Nashville? Robin sits down with her son, Brendan Wiencek, known on stage as Gatlen Gunn, for an honest, warm, and funny conversation about the winding road from studio brat to full-time musician. They dig into what Brendan actually learned growing up inside a performing arts environment, not just technique, but the interpersonal skills, ego management, and communication that now make him a better bandmate and professional. Plus: how COVID derailed his plans for Berklee College of Music, why he chose Nashville over Boston, what it really takes to survive (and thrive) as an independent artist in today's music industry, and why he has zero interest in becoming a TikTok influencer. This episode is for any parent or young performer who has ever wondered what a performing arts education actually prepares you for. Brendan's answer might surprise you. Topics covered: Growing up as a "studio brat" and what that environment gave him Playing with his brothers in The Black Jacks and the bonds it built Navigating COVID, Berklee, and the pivot to Nashville Life playing covers on Broadway and building an original project (Gatlen Gunn) Why followers are now currency and why he refuses to play that game His definition of success at 40 Advice for the high schooler playing guitar in their basement right now Find Brendan: Search Gatlen Gunn on Spotify, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook. If you're in Nashville, catch him live at JBJ's on 4th and Broadway. Let’s Connect on Socials: EMC Performing Arts Studio on Facebook EMC Performing Arts Studio on Instagram In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Facebook In The Spotlight: Raising Leaders in the Performing Arts on Instagram Interested in Classes at EMC? Learn More About Us Here