Biography
Julien Brunetaud is a pianist, singer and composer.
For over twenty years, he has been building a unique musical universe where blues converses with jazz and a resolutely contemporary groove. His expressive playing, both percussive and nuanced, and his sincere voice shape an immediately recognizable artistic identity.
Born in 1982, he began playing piano at the age of seven and founded his first band at twelve. A self-taught musician, he honed his skills by accompanying French and then American artists, gaining extensive stage experience and
the pivotal stays in New Orleans, Memphis and New York.
Having been influenced from a young age by listening to BB King and the energy of rock and roll, he has forged a direct link between his musical journey and the African-American tradition. Winner of the France Blues Trophies (best French and European pianist) and finalist of the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, he has performed at the Chicago Blues Festival and in numerous clubs and festivals in Europe and the United States.
He accompanied Chuck Berry at the Élysée Montmartre and opened for BB King and Pinetop Perkins. Over the years, he also collaborated with Dana Gillespie, Evan Christopher, and Leroy Jones.
His discography began with Orleans Street Boogie (2005), which won the Prix du Hot Club de France. It continued with Driftin' Blues (2007), Look Like Twins (2010), Nikki and Jules (2014), Playground (2015), Baby Blues (2018), Feels Like Home (2022), and most recently Bluesiana (2023), inspired by Louisiana and Mississippi. Each album demonstrates a balance between fidelity to his roots and stylistic openness.
Based in Marseille since 2018, he founded his trio with Sam Favreau and Cédric Bec and created his own studio, which has become a space for research and creation. There, he develops a more personal style of writing, giving essential importance to musical dialogue and spontaneity.
Keen to pass on his knowledge, he also shares his approach to piano, groove and accompaniment through workshops, masterclasses and educational content.
On stage, whether solo or with a band, Julien Brunetaud champions a vibrant and accessible music where blues, jazz, and boogie naturally intertwine. A European songwriter with an American heart, he pursues an ever-evolving artistic approach, faithful to his roots but open to contemporary sounds.