And now the Clutha country singer is hoping to crack the mainstream with his original anthem Singalong.
"I’ve yet to talk about what date I’ll chuck it out, but it might even be this month," he said.
"It’s pretty fun. I love it and the Six60 boys love it too, and that’s a massive compliment for me."
The Romahapa father of three grew up with "country in his veins".
"My dad was in a Golden Guitar band called Southern Country. I used to travel with him to music festivals.
Beginning with South Otago High School bands and rockquests in the 1990s, Brown’s own music brought him closer to big names in the industry, including Six60 bassist Chris Mac.
"We stayed in contact and when Six60 announced ‘One More Show’, I messaged Chris and said ‘you should totally come to Clutha because the venue is sweet and I could open for you’, not expecting anything would come of it."
Brown had also sent samples of original songs and was invited by Mac to cut Singalong in an Auckland studio.
"That was back in July ... Then on the 25th [of August] Chris texted and his words were ‘Yo, do you wanna do the opening slot on Saturday [31]?’."
Alone with his guitar, Brown seized the opportunity to appear as the opening act for 1500 concert-goers at Te Pou Ō Mata-Au Clutha District War Memorial & Community Centre (TPŌMA).
"To me an anthem is something people can relate to and sing with all their hearts ... Singalong has a summer anthem vibe ...
"It’s pretty fun [then] suddenly the biggest band in New Zealand likes it and asks you to open for them."
At the age of 45, Brown feels the time is right.
"I’ve just got to chuck my music out there ... Over the years I’ve written maybe 80 songs. I’ve got 12 up my sleeve and my dream would be to launch an album from TPŌMA.
"I suppose I’m kind of saying, if there’s something you’ve always thought you should do, do it. Better late than never."
