Brian Alan Hager is a Cleveland-based singer-songwriter, multi-instrumentalist, and guitarist whose music is a soulful fusion of blues‑tinged indie rock and alternative pop—with a touch of jam‑band improvisation and throwback flair. Rooted in inspiration from blues‑rock artists like The Black Keys, Tedeschi Trucks, Jack White, and The Rolling Stones, his guitar‑driven sound blends laid‑back synth textures, emotional melodies, and spirited riffs. Whether solo or with his full band—including his cousin Jeff Hager on trumpet and regional musicians—his live performances are energetic and improvisational, delivering fresh interpretations of his catalog in a lively jam format.

He began playing piano and guitar around age seven—shortly after the loss of his mother—and was later gifted his first guitar by his father, igniting a lifelong love of music.

Early in his career, Hager performed with Cleveland glam rock band Vanity Crash and served as a guitarist for blues‑soul veteran Travis "Moonchild" Haddix. At the onset of the pandemic, he focused primarily on his solo act—performing at clubs, breweries, wineries, festivals, and regional events—using live looping techniques to layer acoustic, electric, bass, and percussion tracks, often injecting improvised blues‑rock and jazz solos into his performances.

In early 2024, Hager expanded into a full band setting for the first time in five years—featuring his son Jonah on guitar, along with keyboards, bass, drums, and trumpet. Their dynamic "jam‑band" take on his songs has been well received live and featured in his live release from Broadview Brewing Company.

Hager recently showcased his original work through a multi‑part album project titled Rock and Soul, a homage to the rock, blues, soul, and occasional country flavors that influence him. Released in phases—Side A (Jan 2023) and Side B (late 2023)—the entire full-length album was released in December of 2024. His sound, likened to “John Mayer meets Radiohead featuring Keith Richards,” journeys through rock and blues tonality, with synth‑laden melodies and guitar‑driven hooks.

Musical Identity

• Genre fusion: Blues‑tinged indie rock with soulful pop, rock‑and‑roll, occasional alternative/prog textures, and country accents.
• Themes: Uplifting, positive narratives (“New Shoes,” “Love Some More”), introspective reflections (“I’m Alice in Wonderland”), conscious commentary (“Don’t Bring Me Down Again”).
• Live energy: Known for vibrant performances—solo or band—with upbeat guitar solos and audience‑engaging grooves.

Discography Highlights

• The Condition of Things (2022) – synth and acoustic exploration
• Rock and Soul (Side A & B Eps) (2023) – rock‑blues‑soul EPs
• Live at Broadview Brewing Company – (2024)
• Rock and Soul (Entire Album), (2024)

Live Performance Footprint

With over 50 regional dates scheduled in 2025—including spots at Forest City Brewery, Wolf Creek Winery, and the Painesville Party in the Park—Hager continues to build his reputation in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Indiana, New York, and beyond.

Brian Alan Hager’s career is defined by heartfelt songwriting, expert guitar work, and a genuine passion for blending blues roots with indie creativity. Whether on stage with a full band or layering live loops solo, his performances offer a compelling mix of genre, emotion, and musical craftsmanship.