Karl Brazil

Quick Facts

Summary

Karl Brazil is a British drummer, musical director and songwriter who has worked with Robbie Williams since 2009 and served as his musical director since the XXV tour. One of the UK’s most in-demand musicians, he has also performed and recorded with artists including James Blunt, Elton John and Take That.

Biography

Early life and musical background

Karl Brazil was born in Birmingham and grew up in a musical household. His father was a guitarist, and music equipment was a constant presence in the family home. He began playing drums at the age of two and was given his first full drum kit by the age of five.

I was two when I had a drum kit. It was a toy kit at first, but my dad could see I had a feel for itKarl Brazil

He attended Sheldon Heath School in Birmingham, partly due to its strong reputation for music. Alongside formal education, Brazil spent hours playing along to records at home, developing his timing, feel and musical understanding from an early age.

Early professional career

Brazil’s first major breakthrough came at the age of 17 when he appeared on Top of the Pops with Bitty McLean in 1994. He later toured arenas as a support act for Wet Wet Wet, an experience he has described as formative.

That tour was a real eye-opener. I watched and thought, ‘I want to do this’Karl Brazil

These early years provided practical experience in large-scale touring, live television and professional studio work, helping to establish his reputation within the UK music industry.

Work with James Blunt and other artists

Brazil went on to secure a long-term position as drummer for James Blunt, a role that would span two decades. Joining Blunt early in his career, Brazil performed on tours that progressed from small venues to major arenas and stadiums.

Beyond Blunt, Brazil has worked with a wide range of artists including Elton John, Christina Aguilera, Paloma Faith, Take That, Westlife, Girls Aloud, Olly Murs, Leona Lewis and Ed Sheeran. His adaptability across pop, rock and acoustic styles has made him a frequent choice for both touring and studio projects.

Joining Robbie Williams

Brazil first crossed paths with Robbie Williams during the mid-2000s but officially joined Williams’ touring band in 2009. His arrival followed earlier audition experiences and informal collaborations, reflecting the long-term professional connections common within the industry.

It felt like a full-circle moment. I’d auditioned years earlier, and suddenly I was thereKarl Brazil

He quickly became a key member of the live band, contributing to tours, televised performances and major one-off events.

Musical director role

From the XXV tour onwards, Brazil took on the role of musical director for Robbie Williams. His responsibilities include shaping live arrangements, overseeing rehearsals, coordinating the band and ensuring musical consistency across shows.

My job is to make sure that when Rob arrives, everything is ready for himKarl Brazil

Brazil has described the role as both musical and managerial, requiring an understanding of performance dynamics, audience expectations and the practical realities of large-scale touring.

Songwriting and recording

In addition to his live work, Brazil has become a regular songwriting collaborator with Robbie Williams. His co-writing credits include songs such as Marry Me, Andy Warhol, Gold, Dirty Rotten, Bye Bye, Can’t Stop Christmas, More Than This and The World and Her Mother.

He also co-wrote and co-produced Rocket, featuring Tony Iommi, for Williams’ forthcoming album Britpop.

Writing with Rob is intense. He’s incredibly quick and instinctiveKarl Brazil

Style and reputation

Brazil is known for his musical versatility, combining rock power with swing, pop and acoustic sensitivity. His ability to adapt across genres has allowed him to move seamlessly between projects while maintaining a consistent professional profile.

Within Robbie Williams’ organisation, Brazil is regarded as both a creative partner and a stabilising presence, contributing to the cohesion of the live band and the evolution of Williams’ sound.

Credits & Contributions (33)