Bradley James Nowell was born February 22, 1968 and grew up in Long Beach, CA.
Nowell was a soulful singer whose smoky, pliant voice took cues from such reggae greats as Bob Marley and Jimmy Cliff.
Nowell’s subject was his own life, whether realistically detailed or adored by imaginative license.
Trenchant reggae rhythms were Sublime's musical foundation. It also deployed thrashing punk beats, rap elements, and lighter rhythms as well. Sublime's climb to national recognition started early in 1995, when KROQ producer Tazy Phyllipz began playing "Date Rape." The song kindled interest in the overlooked album "40oz. to Freedom," which went on to sell 151,000 copies.
A contract with MCA Records arised. With producer Paul Leary and David Kahne, Sublime finished the upcoming album that would be its big for a career-solidifying breakthrough. Nowell, who’s heroin addictions were soon to be history, was on an upswing.
Brad Nowell was pronounced dead at 12:28 p.m. on Saturday, May 25 in a hotel room in San Francisco where the band was on tour. The probable cause of death is accidental drug overdose. Nowell, the singer, guitarist, and chief songwriter for the Long Beach-based trio was 28.
A week before his death, Nowell married Troy Dendekker, the mother of their 11 month old son, Jakob.
Brad’s death came way before it should have. Not only was he a great song writer, but also a father, husband, and friend to many. He was doing so well staying clean, but the pressure and stress of going on tour again caused him to go back to the unnatural release he had grown accustomed to…heroin.
In Brad, people lost a dear friend, immensely gifted musician, and an incredible performer. Bradley showed us a style of music we could all relate to, one that is real. He leaves behind a musical legacy that will forever be cherished.
Click on the Picture to hear What I Got
Caress Me Down
Same in The End
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