Meet Brian Kruzan | Musician

We had the good fortune of connecting with Brian Kruzan and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Brian, what role has risk played in your life or career?
Risk, for me, has always been more about conquering internal fears than external challenges. My deep love for music—both consuming and creating it—has been a central part of my life. However, it took me years to feel comfortable sharing that part of myself. It’s easy to overestimate how much others will judge creating something and putting it out into the world. I’ve found releasing music and creating an aesthetic and feel for those projects to be quite life-giving, and it’s always wonderful when people are, to whatever scale, impacted by something one has created.

People admire those who are unafraid to show their creativity and be themselves. I had to stop projecting my assumptions about others’ judgments and focus on the joy of creating. The right people, the ones who appreciate and resonate with the art, naturally gravitate towards it. Ultimately, I discovered that the real risk was not in creating and sharing my work, but in holding back. Taking the plunge into authenticity has brought the most rewarding experiences in my life.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a songwriter and musician. What sets me apart? I’m pretty much a basic millennial with a deep love for music. I have always been passionate about both consuming and creating it. However, the journey to find uniqueness has been both challenging and rewarding.

The most significant hurdle and benefit in this journey has been collaboration. Working primarily with my bandmate, Paul Vinsonhaler, we formed the band Susurra a few years ago. Together, we have released two albums, each reflecting our diverse musical tastes. On my own, my style leans towards pop, while Paul brings a cinematic and experimental edge to our sound. This fusion of styles creates a distinct sound that sets us apart.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of our work is seeing our creations come to life. From conceptualizing album art and photos to performing live, every step of the process is exciting. I am incredibly proud of the music we’ve released and the live performances we’ve given, and I eagerly anticipate the new songs we are working on.

Taking the first step in collaboration was the biggest challenge. Having an idea and allowing another person in can be daunting, but there is something about having someone else in the process. Each person brings their uniqueness and strengths to the process and pushes the other to keep moving on an idea. Our brand and story are about embracing our differences and creating something unique. It’s been a fun and evolving process, and I’m excited to continue sharing these ideas with our listeners.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
I’m from Memphis, so that’s where I’ll focus. I love spending time downtown, particularly around South Main Street. My girlfriend and I love taking long walks, exploring local shops and restaurants, crossing the bridge over the Mississippi River, and enjoying the sunset in Tom Lee Park. My favorite spots downtown are Wiseacre Brewing, Good Fortune Co., Ernestine and Hazel, and The Green Beetle. The rooftops of the Peabody Hotel or The Hu provide really great views of the city.

I usually try to avoid Beale Street, but if you’re visiting, I feel like you have to experience it. I’d be remiss to not tell folks to go to Graceland, and if you’re feeling sporty, I suppose one should go to the Bass Pro Pyramid.

Broad Avenue in Binghampton, Overton Square, and Cooper-Young are great neighborhoods to eat and hang out at night as well. The Cove on Broad and a gem!

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I went through a coaching season with Kristen Finch (Podcast-Calm AF). Her insights pushed me to authenticity and the pursuit of goals.

Website: https://www.susurraband.com/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susurra_band/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100082847169315

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@susurra8340