Doyle Bramhall Ii

Doyle Bramhall II was born on December 24, 1968, in Dallas, Texas. His early life was influenced by the blues and rock ‘n’ roll music present in his home, as his father, Doyle Bramhall Sr., was a drummer and songwriter known for his collaborations with Stevie Ray and Jimmie Vaughan. At the age of 18, Bramhall II began his professional career, touring with Jimmie Vaughan’s band, the Fabulous Thunderbirds. Following the tragic death of Stevie Ray Vaughan in 1990, Bramhall II co-founded the band Arc Angels with Charlie Sexton, Chris Layton, and Tommy Shannon. The band released their self-titled debut album, which featured songs like “Living in a Dream” and “Sent by Angels.” He later began a solo career, releasing his first album, “Doyle Bramhall II,” in 1996, followed by “Jellycream” in 1999 and “Welcome” in 2001.

Bramhall II’s guitar skills attracted the attention of prominent musicians. He joined Roger Waters’ “In the Flesh” concert tours in 1999, 2000, and 2002, contributing guitar and vocals, and his performances were documented on the “In the Flesh – Live” album and DVD. His collaboration with Eric Clapton began in 2000, with Bramhall II’s songs and guitar featured on Clapton’s Grammy-winning album “Riding with the King,” a joint project with B.B. King. This led to a long-term touring and recording relationship with Clapton, contributing to albums such as “Reptile” (2001), “Back Home” (2005), and “The Road to Escondido” (2006). He also co-produced Clapton’s “Clapton” (2010) and “Old Sock” (2013), and participated in Clapton’s 50th anniversary tour and the 2014 album “The Breeze: An Appreciation of JJ Cale.

Beyond his work with Clapton and Waters, Bramhall II expanded his roles as a composer, guitarist, and producer. His collaborations span a wide array of artists, including Elton John, Gary Clark Jr., Gregg Allman, Dr. John, Erykah Badu, and Meshell Ndegeocello. He produced Sheryl Crow’s album “100 Miles from Memphis” in 2011 and toured in support of it. In 2015, he joined the Tedeschi Trucks Band, contributing to their critically acclaimed albums. His fourth solo album, “Rich Man,” released in 2016, reflected a spiritual and musical journey influenced by his travels in India and Northern Africa, incorporating instruments like the sarangi and oud. His 2018 album “Shades” featured collaborations with Norah Jones and Eric Clapton, and in 2022, the Arc Angels reformed for a short tour. In 2023, he performed at a tribute concert for Jeff Beck at the Royal Albert Hall alongside Eric Clapton and other artists.