Brandon Flowers’ Killer Connections: A Look Into Brandon Flowers’ Ubiquitous Presence in the Music Industry
Ever wonder what Brandon Flowers’ phone book looks like? Is it the embodiment of the “dad rock” universe? Is Bruce Springsteen in his favorites? Through these features and duets, learn a little more about this artist’s far reaching network and who’s made a mark on his music.
Written by Lucy Chong
Photo courtesy of Getty Images
“Jenny Was A Friend of Mine” by The Killers
In addition to being the first song on The Killers’ debut album, “Jenny Was A Friend of Mine” serves as the first song in the band’s rumored “Murder Trilogy.” This song follows the police interrogation of a guy that is responsible for his girlfriend’s murder. Considering the band’s name, Jenny’s death is unsurprising. But why label themselves as a group of murderers? The Killers actually got their band name from the bass drum seen in New Order’s “Crystal” music video. This song’s sound also echoes The Cure’s heavy synth and Robert Smith and Morrisey’s British vocals.
“A Dustland Fairytale” by The Killers
Elton John and Brandon Flowers’ friendship is definitely one for the ages. In fact, “A Dustland Fairytale” came to fruition after Brandon Flowers wrote his parents’ love story on the grand piano given to him by John. Back in February, Elton John hosted an A-list Oscars viewing party where he and Flowers performed “Daniel,” a 1973 ballad hit of John’s.
“Hard Enough” by Brandon Flowers
For his solo debut, Flowers was unafraid to bring in reinforcements. On backing vocals for “Hard Enough” is none other than Jenny Lewis, lead singer of indie rock group Rilo Kiley. With both of them calling Las Vegas “home,” this Nevadan duo is a force to be reckoned with.
On Top feat. Danielle Haim on drums
Contrasting with some of the more mature artists he’s collabed with, young but talented Danielle Haim, member of the band HAIM, busted out her percussion skills on stage with Flowers during this performance at the Outside Lands night show. Having once been Jenny Lewis’ touring guitarist, it makes sense that Lewis may have introduced Haim to The Killers’ frontman.
“Politics of Love” by Alex Cameron
Flowers’ collaborations go beyond features and samples, even if he’s doing the backing vocals. Alex Cameron, having opened for The Killers on tour, makes good use of Flowers’ tenor vocals to complement Cameron’s lower melodic line.
“Tranquilize” by The Killers feat. Lou Reed
The Killers bring in the big guns with this Lou Reed feature on the first song of Sawdust, their compilation album. Dire Straits and Joy Division covers are also featured on this album. Needless to say, listeners can probably smell the rock influence on this album from a mile away.
“Have All the Songs Been Written?” by The Killers
On their most recent album, the band broke their five-year hiatus during which Flowers encountered some writer’s block. Naturally, he was inclined to email Bono. Creatively barren and eager for a lead, Flowers inquired in an email to Bono, “have all the songs been written?,” leading to the creation of this song.
“The Calling” by The Killers
Having learned the intricacies of writing the perfect rock song, Flowers really outdid himself with the introductory monologue in “The Calling.” This song was inspired by Caravaggio’s baroque painting, “The Calling of Saint Matthew,” so getting Woody Harrelson to record the Matthew 9:10-12 verse was the only viable option.
“This Charming Man” by The Killers and Johnny Marr
From working as a busboy at a Las Vegas casino — even once snatching a teacup Smiths frontman Morissey drank out of — to performing at Glastonbury with the band’s renowned guitarist Johnny Marr, Brandon Flowers’ career is nothing short of inspirational. There is no doubt that Brandon Flowers has put in the work to earn his extremely killer connections.
Put yourself in Brandon’s shoes by listening to the Spotify playlist featured below!