Brad Cole

The songs of Brad Cole address the ups and downs of the human condition with both wit and raw insight, imploring us to find connection with each other. His passionate and distinctive delivery of roots-based folk music, woven with the grit and groove of old school bossa and rhythm & blues moves the listener’s soul in a direction that is unexpected, yet perfectly familiar.

With 6 studio albums under his belt and a solid 15-years of international touring, Brad has played many notable stages including Lincoln Center, Wrigley Field, City Winery and Levon’s Barn in Woodstock.  Brad has shared the stage with marquee performers including Chris Stapleton, Ingrid Michaelson, Hothouse Flowers, The James Hunter Six and Dave Davies of the Kinks, to name a few. 

Brad performs with the critically acclaimed musical collective Bossa Blue. Together, they share a passion for taking great songwriting to the next level. Their stylistic mash-ups encompass rock, jazz, funk, afropop, Latin grooves, fresh harmonies and original compositions, creating a live experience that blends each crowd, venue, and composition into a unique energetic happening. Formed in Chicago in 2018 and now settled in New York’s Hudson Valley, Bossa Blue continues to push the boundaries of musical fusion.

2016 New Song Songwriting and Performance Competition at Lincoln Center Finalist
2015 Great American Song Contest WINNER
2014 Grassy Hill Kerrville New Folk Finalist
2014 Folk Alliance Official Showcase Performer
2012 Mountain Stage NewSong Regional Finalist