ABOUT BRENTY
Brent Laporre's journey into music began with old CDs and cassettes he discovered in thrift stores. His fascination with "thrift store music"—his affectionate term for the iconic sounds of the 80s and 90s—was shaped by legendary artists like James Ingram and Luther Vandross. These timeless inspirations laid the foundation for his unique musical style, blending the nostalgia of decades past with a fresh, modern twist.
As a first-generation immigrant, Brent grew up navigating the complexities of cultural identity. He realized early on the lack of representation for Filipino Americans and the challenges many face in balancing their heritage with contemporary American culture. Reflecting on his own experiences, Brent has said, "It was always a struggle to fit in when I was young as a 'fresh off the boat' Filipino. I eventually lost the ability to speak my native tongue, so it was hard to relate to native Filipinos. I also didn't share the same interests as other American-born Filipinos. Adopting other cultures sometimes gave me imposter syndrome."
Brent's evolving music explores themes of identity, belonging, and self-discovery. As he continues his creative journey, he uses his artistry to represent and celebrate the Filipino-American experience within the vibrant, multicultural landscape of Richmond, VA—a city that mirrors his own fusion of diverse influences.