Bryan Loren facts for kids

Bryan Loren Hudson (born May 5, 1966), also known as The Wiz, is an American singer, songwriter, and music producer. He is famous for producing and co-writing "Do the Bartman" for The Simpsons in 1990. This song became a big hit around the world. Bryan Loren also released his own hit songs like "Lollipop Luv" and "Do You Really Love Me?". He has worked with many famous artists, including Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, and Sting.

About Bryan Loren

Early Life and Musical Start

Bryan Loren was born in 1966 on Long Island, New York. When he was young, his family moved to South Philadelphia. Bryan became interested in music at just 5 years old. He started by playing drums and soon learned many other instruments. Eventually, he could play every instrument needed to record a full album! Bryan said he was inspired by the music scene in South Philly. He especially liked artists like Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock.

Starting His Music Career

Bryan Loren began his music career at a young age. He was already writing music by age 12. By 15, he was a professional session artist. This means he played instruments for other musicians' recordings. At 17, he signed his first record deal. When he got his solo contract, he started using the name Bryan Loren professionally.

Playing with Bands

From 1981, Bryan worked as a session musician at Alpha International Studios. He recorded with groups like Nona Hendryx and Tavares. During this time, he was known as Bryan Hudson.

Fat Larry's Band

Fat Larry's Band was the first group Bryan Loren officially joined. He played synthesizers for their albums Breakin' Out (1982) and Straight from the Heart (1983). It was here that he earned his nickname "The Wiz" because he was so good at playing keyboards. The band planned a tour, but Bryan was too young to go. He was replaced, but he did record with them again in 1986.

Cashmere

Bryan was also a member of the band Cashmere. He wrote music for their 1983 album, Let the Music Turn You On. He also sang background vocals, showing he was a talented singer too. The owner of Alpha International Studios noticed Bryan's skills. They offered him a solo recording contract with Philly World Records. Bryan signed the deal and started performing as Bryan Loren. This became his professional name.

Solo Music and Hits

In 1984, Bryan Loren released his first solo album, Bryan Loren. It had two popular songs: "Lollipop Luv" and "Do You Really Love Me?". "Lollipop Luv" reached number 23 on the Billboard R&B chart. Bryan played all the instruments and sang all the vocals on this album. He also handled the production and mixing. His first album was re-released in 2012.

In 1992, Bryan released another solo album called Music from the New World. A song on this album, "To Satisfy You", featured Michael Jackson singing background vocals. Michael Jackson had heard the song during his own album sessions. He decided not to use it for himself but agreed to sing on Bryan's version. Another song, "For You", was first offered to Janet Jackson in 1989. It was not used for her album, but it shows how Bryan Loren's music was sought after by top artists.

Working with Other Stars

Bryan Loren has worked with many famous musicians. In 1990, he co-wrote and produced the song "Do the Bartman" for The Simpsons Sing the Blues. He also sang background vocals on it. Michael Jackson was a big fan of The Simpsons and helped write the song, but he wasn't officially credited. "Do the Bartman" became a number one hit in several countries!

Bryan worked with Michael Jackson again in 1991 on Jackson's album Dangerous. Bryan played drums and other percussion instruments. He also wrote songs for other artists, including Whitney Houston's "Feels So Good". He produced music for well-known artists like Eric Benét, Barry White, and Sting.

Awards and Recognition

In 1990, Bryan Loren won the Sony Innovator's award in Sound. This award recognized his amazing talent. George Benson, a famous musician, praised Bryan. He said, "Bryan's got the power of talent, his imagination will take him far."

His Albums

Studio albums

• Bryan Loren (1984)
• Music from the New World (1992)