In this new entry in our ‘Diamonds In The Rough’ category, we would like to introduce you to upcoming artist Brandon Markell Holmes and his brand new single titled “FTW”.
Brandon Markell Holmes, the multi-hyphenate vocalist, educator, and performance artist, has just dropped “FTW”, the first single from his highly anticipated album Try, arriving later this summer via toucan sounds. True to his ever-evolving artistry, Holmes delivers a track that’s both emotionally rich and irresistibly infectious—an anthem that feels like a warm embrace in turbulent times.
Co-written with drummer-composer Silvan Strauss and co-produced by toucan sounds founder Robert PM (formerly of French Horn Rebellion), “FTW” is a stunning genre-defying blend of vocal house, soul, and modern pop elegance. The track’s tight, luminous production lays the groundwork for Holmes’ signature vocals—polished, heartfelt, and unmistakably his own. Think: N.E.R.D. at their most soulful, filtered through a lens of Chicago house, Brooklyn grit, and theatrical finesse.
But “FTW” is more than just an earworm—it’s a philosophy.
“In the midst of stormy weather, we can still look to the positive and our community for strength,” Holmes explains. “Life comes in seasons—some good, some challenging—but what remains constant is our essence of gratitude, positivity, and appreciation for the people and moments that make those difficult days not just bearable, but meaningful.”
This perspective is deeply rooted in Brandon’s journey. A fixture in the underground music scene, his vocals have reverberated across NYC dance floors and global stages alike—from intimate sets with club favorites like musclecars and Byron The Aquarius to a standout vocal feature on the GRAMMY-nominated Humanz album by Gorillaz. His critically acclaimed visual EP Inertia combined music, narrative, and social commentary in a way that only Holmes can—drawing praise from outlets like Afropunk, Billboard, BBC, and the Chicago Tribune.
Yet, Brandon’s brilliance doesn’t stop at music. Parallel to his performance career, he’s also been completing a Master of Science in Education while serving as a full-time special education teacher for grades 7–12. Teaching humanities by day and creating transformative art by night, Holmes is the embodiment of balance, purpose, and perseverance.
“I have witnessed how creative expression can unlock student potential and enhance comprehension across subject areas,” he shares—proving that for Brandon, every facet of his life is a platform for empowerment and connection.
“FTW”—short for “For The Win”—isn’t just a song. It’s a declaration. A radiant, slow-burning testament to community, endurance, and joy, wrapped in a track that demands both deep listening and full-body dancing. With his new album Try on the horizon, Holmes is inviting us all to lean into the light, even when skies are gray.
Stream “FTW” now on all platforms, and stay tuned for the release of Try later this summer.
Listen below: