Tucson Music Festival – A Conversation with Brad Phipps

Tucson Music Festival – A Conversation with Brad Phipps

We caught up with Brad to hear more about what inspired this one-of-a-kind event and where he hopes it will go from here.

What inspired the idea for the “Tucson Music Festival,” and how long has this been a dream of yours?

I’ve been carrying the idea since around 2005 when a group of musicians and friends did a Toys for Tots drive and took over a stage at the 4th Avenue Street Fair. We formed a small collective called Local E, aiming to spotlight local music and talent for free. Over the years, I’ve realized that investing in our community’s future sometimes means pushing forward even when resources are scarce.

I’ve been playing music in Tucson since 1989; my first big show was in 1990 at The Rock with DRI, performing with my band Nuiclayic Fear. My bands—later Painted Aggression and then The Aggressive Sound Session—have always been involved in charitable events, driven by the goal of getting our music out to the world. In 2015, I connected with George Howard, founder of the Tucson Musicians Museum, who sadly passed away a few years ago. Joining their board exposed me to the inner workings of the museum, highlighting the importance of documenting Tucson’s musical legacy and helping underprivileged youth access instruments.

Recently, after losing our longtime drummer Brian Oldfield, I felt it was the right time to finally bring the “Tucson Music Festival” to life. The release of my book “Zack and the Bud Stalk,” my friend Han Yi reopening Mrs. Lee’s Bar & Grill, and my upcoming 56th birthday all converged, making it clear this was the moment to act. I wanted to create a space where the Tucson music community could unite, showcase local talent, and support the museum’s important mission.

You describe the event as part showcase, part expo, and “completely Tucson.” What makes Tucson’s music scene so special to you?

Tucson’s music scene is incredibly diverse and filled with hidden gems—artists and bands who put out exceptional work often without recognition. Our event aims to bridge the gap between local musicians, businesses, and the broader community. It’s about creating connections: musicians meeting potential collaborators, bands discovering new studios, vendors finding new customers, and everyone coming together through the universal language of music. The M.E.D. Talks (Music, Expression, and Discovery) are another key aspect, offering essential insights into evolving industry trends, like the growing role of AI in music production.

This event brings together performers, bands, studios, vendors, and more. What kind of experience do you hope attendees walk away with?

I hope attendees leave feeling inspired and connected, having discovered amazing local bands, musicians, and businesses they never knew existed. Whether enjoying live performances, engaging with informative M.E.D. Talks, or just relaxing with great food and drinks, I want them to know their support has directly benefited the Tucson Musicians Museum. I envision attendees proudly recalling their participation years from now, knowing they helped establish a lasting Tucson tradition.

Why was it important to include booths for bands that aren’t performing? How do you envision this helping local artists?

Including booths for bands not performing allows artists to sell merchandise and connect with new audiences even if they’re not on stage. It helps bands remain visible, network with other musicians, and build their fan base without needing to perform at every event.

The event is also a fundraiser for the Tucson Musicians Museum. Why did you choose this organization, and what does it mean to you?

As a board member, I’ve seen firsthand how vital the museum’s work is—documenting Tucson’s rich musical history, supporting youth education, and providing instruments to kids who otherwise couldn’t afford them. The museum often operates on tight budgets, and this event represents a tangible way to raise the necessary funds and awareness to continue this critical mission.

With your book Zack and the Bud Stalk dropping the day before, and your friend reopening a bar on the same day—this seems like a magical moment. How do these personal milestones connect with the timing of the event?

You mention this first event is a “small-scale prototype.” What’s your vision for next year’s full-scale version at Reid Park Bandshell?

This initial event serves as a prototype to demonstrate what’s possible. My vision for the full-scale event at Reid Park Bandshell includes an expanded lineup of bands, increased involvement from local businesses, more extensive M.E.D. Talks, and broader community participation. Leading up to it, I’m considering a series of smaller concerts across Tucson to build momentum, visibility, and support.

What kinds of support or involvement are you still looking for as you prepare for the August 16 launch?

We’re still welcoming bands and businesses interested in booth opportunities, though these spots are filling quickly. Additionally, we’re looking for a few enthusiastic volunteers to ensure the event runs smoothly. Community support is essential to make this inaugural event successful.

How can the broader Tucson music community—fans, musicians, and industry folks—help make this vision a reality?

Simply put, participate and spread the word! Attend the shows, engage with artists, support local businesses, and embrace the variety of talent Tucson offers. Active participation from the community will ensure this vision becomes a vibrant annual event.

What do you hope this event becomes for Tucson in the long run? A tradition, a movement, something else?

I hope the “Tucson Music Festival” evolves into a beloved annual tradition—a vibrant celebration where musicians, fans, and industry professionals gather to connect, collaborate, and celebrate everything unique about Tucson’s music community. It’s about creating lasting memories and fostering a thriving, inclusive local music culture.

📣 CALL FOR BANDS & MUSIC INDUSTRY PROS

Brad is currently booking limited spots for the August 16 launch of the Tucson Music Festival. If you’re interested in performing, hosting a booth, screening a music video, or connecting with the community as a studio, label, engineer, or vendor—now’s the time!

👉 Email: tucsonmetalsociety@gmail.com
📆 Event Info & RSVP: View the event on Facebook »
🎸 Genres: All welcome
📍 Location: Tucson, AZ
🎯 Goal: Celebrate and strengthen our local scene while raising funds for the Tucson Musicians Museum