In the mosaic of contemporary music, where every artist strives to leave an indelible mark, Sharper’s Florist emerges as a distinctive voice. The solo project of Filipino-American songwriter, producer, and singer Bradley David Sharper is more than just a collection of songs; it’s a narrative odyssey that captures the essence of human emotions in their rawest form. Born in White Plains, Maryland, and currently residing in Los Angeles, California, Sharper has cultivated a sound that resonates with the intimate moments of life—those fleeting glances on a subway or the unspoken words between two people.
Sharper’s journey into the realm of music was not one charted from the beginning. It was during a challenging period in middle school, following hip surgery that left him confined to a body cast for three months, that he found solace in the strings of his guitar. With only his arms free to move, he immersed himself in learning The Killers’ “Hot Fuzz” tracklist—an experience that laid the foundation for his musical aspirations. High school saw him carving out his niche by covering John Mayer and Death Cab for Cutie songs amidst a scene dominated by country and southern rock—a testament to his burgeoning individuality as an artist.
The move to New York City to attend The American Musical and Dramatic Academy marked a pivotal chapter in Sharper’s story. The city’s vibrant energy and rich musical heritage served as both inspiration and incubator for refining his craft. Performing across various venues—from dimly lit bars to quaint cafes—Sharper released “Sonder,” his debut EP that echoed New York City’s influence on him as an artist.
However, it was in Los Angeles where Sharper’s Florist truly took root. Amidst completing his Fine Arts degree, Sharper explored different musical landscapes by collaborating with local bands and artists. These experiences were instrumental in shaping what would become the signature sound of Sharper’s Florist—an eclectic blend of indie pop/rock infused with heartfelt storytelling.
The release of “Day to Day” under the moniker Sharper’s Florist marked a new beginning. This upbeat single narrated the simple yet profound experience of longing for someone’s affection against an indie beach backdrop. Its success paved the way for subsequent singles like “The Vibe” and “In Your Company,” each further establishing Sharper as a promising talent in the indie music scene.
2020 brought unforeseen challenges with global lockdowns but also presented an opportunity for introspection and creativity. Confined to his North Hollywood apartment, Sharper poured his soul into writing and recording “Cosmic Hiding Place,” an EP that delves into themes of space, heartbreak, and solitude through a lo-fi lens.
With “Cosmic Hiding Place” receiving acclaim, Sharper assembled a live band featuring drummer Andrew Crawford and bassist Philip Banks to bring an added dimension to his music during performances across Southern California.
“Caroline,” Sharper’s latest release, captures the quintessence of 2010s alternative rock while maintaining minimalist production quality. It tells the relatable tale of trying to win over someone’s heart under less-than-ideal circumstances—a narrative enriched by synths and acoustic guitars intertwining gracefully.
Looking forward, Sharper’s Florist is poised to embark on its next musical venture—a new EP set to record later this fall with renowned producer John Gilbert at the helm. This project promises not only to expand on the sonic landscape that has become synonymous with Sharper but also explore new territories musically.
Through social media platforms like Instagram @sharpersflorist and Spotify, along with Facebook, fans can stay connected with Bradley David Sharper’s evolving artistic journey.
Sharper’s path from playing guitar while immobilized in a body cast to becoming an indie pop sensation is not just about music; it’s about perseverance, evolution, and connecting with others through shared emotions—a narrative thread that weaves through each chord strummed by this remarkable artist known as Sharper’s Florist.
Published by: Khy Talara
