“Silk and Sandpaper”: Gable Bradley and Brooke Lee Strike Gold with Heartfelt Duet
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
A spark ignited three months ago during a casual writing session, and now, that spark has turned into a blazing fire with the release of “Silk and Sandpaper,” a captivating duet by Gable Bradley and Brooke Lee. This moving track, born from the creative collaboration of Bradley, Lee, and Mike Fiorentino, marks a significant milestone in both artists’ burgeoning careers. Released through Airfoil Music, Inc. via The Orchard, “Silk and Sandpaper” is poised to resonate with listeners who appreciate raw emotion and authentic storytelling.
The Genesis of “Silk and Sandpaper”
Gable Bradley describes the initial writing session as a moment of unexpected synergy. “I’ve known Brooke and been a fan forever…we feel like we’re living the same chase and run in the same circles – just two dreamers chasing this thing,” he explains. “When Mikey (Fiorentino), Brooke and I got in the room to write, I wasn’t sure where the day would take us but I could tell right away Brooke had an agenda that we were there to write a duet for us. We definitely captured the magic.”
Brooke Lee adds depth to the song’s narrative, revealing, “‘Silk And Sandpaper’ is about being drawn back into a relationship that isn’t what you hoped it would be. It’s about two crazy foolish lovers who lie to themselves because they can’t live without one another. It depicts the action of picking the devil you know over the one you don’t. What’s one more night going to do?” This raw honesty and vulnerability are palpable in every note, creating a connection that feels both personal and universal.
Two Journeys, One Destination
The paths of Gable Bradley and Brooke Lee share striking similarities. Both artists embody the spirit of chasing dreams with unwavering determination. Gable arrived in Nashville with nothing but a beat-up truck, a duffel bag, and a relentless ambition. Brooke, who began her musical journey at 15, made her move to Nashville as soon as she turned 21, ready to carve her own path.
Gable’s “Lawless EP” and subsequent singles, “Bottle and a B-Side” and “Die Young,” alongside Brooke’s releases like “Call Me Pretty” and “Motel Livin’,” have garnered millions of streams and cultivated dedicated fan bases. This success is a testament to their talent and authenticity, qualities that shine brightly in “Silk and Sandpaper.”
Gable Bradley: A Lawless Spirit
Gable Bradley’s background is as unique as his music. Growing up in Hot Springs, Arkansas, he was surrounded by a diverse mix of influences, from his working-class Bradley relatives to his Vance kin, who were itinerant entertainers. This eclectic upbringing shaped his musical perspective, blending country and rock influences seamlessly. His grandmother’s carnival even featured a young Johnny Cash, while his father and uncles introduced him to the sounds of Lynyrd Skynyrd and AC/DC.
Bradley’s refusal to conform to industry norms has set him apart. He synthesizes the traditions of his family heritage, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly original. This authenticity, while sometimes challenging in the mainstream music scene, has earned him a loyal following.
Brooke Lee: A Storyteller at Heart
Brooke Lee, a Charlotte, North Carolina native, has been honing her craft since her teenage years. Her move to Nashville marked the beginning of a focused pursuit of her country music dreams. She has worked with Spirit Music Publishing and shared stages with notable artists like Willie Nelson, Gavin DeGraw, and Wade Bowen.
Her songs, like “Kill Me with Tequila” and “Motel Livin’,” showcase her songwriting prowess and emotional depth. “Anything I write and sing about is something I can relate to,” she says. “I’ve always been intentional with my words and lyrics. We all have a story to tell, and I want everyone to hear mine through my songs.”
“Silk and Sandpaper”: A Duet of Raw Emotion
“Silk and Sandpaper” is a perfect blend of Gable Bradley’s raw, lawless spirit and Brooke Lee’s heartfelt storytelling. The duet captures the push and pull of a tumultuous relationship, the magnetic pull of love that defies logic. The vocal harmonies and emotional delivery create a powerful listening experience, leaving a lasting impression.
This collaboration is more than just a song; it’s a testament to the power of shared experiences and artistic connection. As Gable Bradley and Brooke Lee continue their musical journeys, “Silk and Sandpaper” stands as a shining example of their talent and potential.