Jim Brickman takes center stage at the Rex Theatre Nov. 19: A melodic journey through time

MANCHESTER, NH — Jim Brickman, best-selling solo pianist, is set to grace the stage at the Rex Theatre in Manchester on November 19, promising an evening of enchanting melodies and surprises. In a recent interview with Ink Link, Brickman offered a glimpse into his musical journey, collaborations, and the creative process that defines his compositions.

Beginning with his early attraction to the piano, Brickman reminisced, “I always say that when you are doing something for a hobby, and when you grow up, you have to do something that makes you happy. And you know, music always made me happy.” Despite not hailing from a musical family, the piano’s allure was undeniable. “I was just very drawn to the piano, and not for any particular reason,” he says, recalling how he passed on piano lessons but remained connected to the instrument.

Reflecting on his influences, Brickman found a love with the greats from the 1970s. Considering himself a songwriter first and foremost, he naturally was drawn to the pop lyricists of that era. “I tended to gravitate toward the pop songs of the ‘70s, primarily singer-songwriters… Carole King, Joni Mitchell, James Taylor, and Simon and Garfunkel were my influences,” says Brickman.

When it comes to collaboration, Brickman enjoys working with artists who can cross the threshold of genres. He emphasized the importance of selecting collaborators based on their ability to bring a song to life and their artistic merit. “To me, music is music… it’s exciting to break those barriers and show that the wide range of people in every genre that I work with are basically the through line,” he says, challenging the notion of categorizing artists into strict genres.

Brickman’s creative process was influenced by his early career as a jingle writer, leading him to write with specific goals and projects in mind. “I always write very high-concept,” he explained. Whether crafting a faith album, a Christmas album, or a collection of love songs, he found direction in project-specific writing.

The evolution of his music since his debut album, “No Words,” in 1995, was described as an authentic reflection of self. “You play how you play, and you have to be as authentic as possible,” Brickman says. He highlighted the importance of avoiding the trap of trying too hard to be something else and letting the music flow organically from the heart.

Brickman’s creative ventures extend beyond music, including three best-selling books and a popular radio show. These outlets, he noted, complement his music by sharing a consistent message of inspiration, humor, and light-heartedness.

When questioned about his legacy, Brickman says he hopes it is his artistry that will be remembered.

“The legacy is making a mark on something that transforms a style into its own thing,” he says, emphasizing the significance of authenticity in creating a lasting impact.

Recalling his experience with television specials, Brickman described the “Celebration of the ‘70s” as surreal, with childhood icons like David Cassidy and Thelma Houston sharing the stage. He emphasized the importance of staying true to one’s self while adapting to the dynamics of performing for a television audience.

As Brickman prepares for the upcoming performance at the Rex Theatre, he hints at what the audience can expect.

“There’s a lot of joy in the show… it’s like an escape for a few hours of beautiful music but also a lot of fun,” he says.

Live-by-request segments, where the audience gets to shout out their favorite Jim Brickman songs for impromptu performances, will add an interactive element to the evening.

Get your tickets today to “Hits Live! And a Little Bit of Christmas” through the Palace Theatre on November 19 at 2 p.m.