Dom Brown, Duran Duran’s longtime touring guitarist, recently spoke with Clash Music about his two-decade journey with the band, his early musical influences, and his experiences working with Liam Gallagher and David Lynch. He also touched on future projects with bandmates John and Roger Taylor, as well as his mixed feelings about stepping aside on Duran Duran’s 2021 album Future Past.
Joining Duran Duran & Fan Reception
Brown stepped in as a replacement for guitarist Andy Taylor in 2004, eventually becoming a full-time touring member in 2006. While Andy’s departure was significant, Dom told Clash Music that the transition was mostly positive:
“I was only aware of very positive feedback, right from the off. The band were encouraging about that, and I remember Wendy [Laister] in management saying to me that the fans really had taken to me and were happy.”
Although never made an official band member, Dom has played a major role in the band’s modern sound, co-writing 13 tracks on 2011’s All You Need is Now and contributing to Paper Gods (2015).
Musical Influences & Early Years
Brown’s love of music started before he even owned a guitar, thanks to an unlikely influence—his PE teacher in Exeter, who played Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, and Black Sabbath before gym class.
Brown recalled:
“He put on ‘Welcome to the Machine’ by Pink Floyd. I was totally transfixed, and it just blew my mind.”
A John, Roger, and Dom Project?
“I’m always recording stuff on my phone and I’ve got a few ideas that I’ve been working on with John and Roger… I guess it could potentially be an album, but I just don’t know when we’ll get around to actually finishing it,” he told Clash Music.
This project is in early stages, but Brown hinted that it could evolve into something more substantial.
Auditioning for Liam Gallagher
Before landing the Duran gig, Brown auditioned for Appleton, the duo formed by Nicole and Natalie Appleton (formerly of All Saints). Nicole’s then-partner, Liam Gallagher, personally sat in on the auditions—with his mother, Peggy, watching as well.
David Lynch & Duran Duran’s Unstaged
In 2011, director David Lynch collaborated with Duran Duran on the concert film Unstaged, recorded at the Mayan Theatre in Los Angeles. Brown described Lynch’s presence as unforgettable:
“He was there at the Theatre, and you were very aware of his presence. He had this little control room out the back where he would be doing his visuals. Definitely a bit of an eccentric genius.”
Future Outlook
While tight-lipped about upcoming Duran Duran releases, Brown expressed confidence in the band’s longevity:
“For the last three or four years, it’s almost back to what it was in the heyday… They’re still making music. They’re not just banging out old songs, they’re very driven, and they’re always passionate.”
Clash Music
Clash Music is a UK-based music and culture publication known for its in-depth interviews, album reviews, and coverage of both mainstream and emerging artists. Launched in 2004, Clash has built a strong reputation for its high-quality journalism and focus on diverse genres, ranging from rock and pop to electronic and hip-hop. The publication frequently features exclusive interviews with legendary musicians, in-depth think pieces, and breaking music news.
Clash also has a strong online presence, with digital articles, social media content, and multimedia features complementing its print editions. Over the years, it has covered major artists such as Duran Duran, Liam Gallagher, and David Lynch, as well as up-and-coming talents. The publication remains a respected voice in the music industry, offering thoughtful perspectives on both new releases and the cultural impact of music.
For more, visit Clash Music’s website.
More About Dom Brown
- Born: June 14, 1972, in London, UK
- Early Career: Played with Tina Turner, Elton John, and Take That before joining Duran Duran.
- Solo Work: Has released four solo albums.
- Side Projects: Leads Uncovered – The Electric Rock Experience with Duran backing vocalist Anna Ross.
- Official Website: dombrown.com
For more on Dom Brown’s career and projects, visit: