Michael Brooks (Band)

Based in Madison, WI, Michael Brooks is a dynamic force in the world of rock and hip-hop fusion. Fronted by Michael Brooks on vocals and guitar, the band includes Joe White "The General" on drums and vocals, Michael Wilmot on saxophone, and Mike Huberty on bass. Drawing influences from classic hip-hop, classic rock, hard rock, reggae, and blues, Michael Brooks blends genres to create a unique sound that resonates across a variety of musical landscapes.

Michael Brooks began his musical journey with his first release, It’s Our Time, which featured a 3-piece acoustic funk-rock setup. The album garnered significant attention on local and regional radio, as well as in Madison Magazine, thanks to standout tracks like “Finding My Way Home,” “Leviathan,” and “Prelude to Erotica.” His follow-up, Seclusion to Sequels, marked a major shift, reflecting the transition from acoustic to electric guitar with harder-edged singles like “Recite the Rhyme,” “Squirm,” and “Dead on Time.”

Following a successful 6-year run with the band, Michael Brooks founded Level 10 Entertainment, a record label that allowed him to collaborate with notable artists including Black Poets Society, Doc Grip, Super Irie, Ruff Shan, Compound, and D-Menace.

In 2009, Michael expanded his musical horizons by joining the rock supergroup SAND as lead guitarist and backing vocalist. He later moved to Nashville in 2011 to pursue photography, where he became a concert photographer for the acclaimed music blog No Country for New Nashville. Michael has had the privilege of photographing legendary artists like KISS, Rascal Flatts, Motley Crue, Imagine Dragons, Trey Songz, G-Love & Special Sauce, B.B. King, and Robert Cray, among others.

From 2015 to 2022, Michael served as the official photographer for the International Physique League, traveling the world to capture stunning moments in locations like Tahiti, New York City, Los Angeles, and Phoenix.

Returning to his musical roots, Michael Brooks has been a staple at Bratfest since 2020, performing both solo and with SAND. He will return to Bratfest in 2025 with an all-star lineup, performing Friday, May 23, at 1:45pm on the Baker-Tilley Stage.

For more information, visit https://bratfest.com/band/michael-brooks-2/.