May 27 1955 September 19 2019 (age 64)
Steve “Sweet Tea” Brantley was born in Jesup, GA on May27, 1955, and departed this life in Augusta, GA on Thursday, Sept 19, 2019 at 1:20 p.m. A highly respected member of the professional music community, Steve toured locally and nationally as bass player, music director, vocalist and producer/arranger. His musical associations and accomplishments are too numerous to name but include: First professional band, “Senate”, led by Augusta saxophonist Tillman Ezernack. Leader of the band, “Buford”, which played original music in and out of the Augusta area with co-founder, Frank Brittingham. Staff musician and arranger with long time collaborator and dear friend, Bruce Dees, at International Recording Studios in North Augusta. Sessions with James Brown. Band leader and bassist for David Loggins. Countless sessions as bassist and vocalist in Nashville. Moved to L.A. where he became bassist and background vocalist for Joan Armatrading’s world tour. Produced for Polydor Records with longtime partner Bruce Albertine. Toured and recorded extensively with Gary Morris as bassist and band leader/arranger. Moved back to Augusta to reconnect with his roots. Established long time musical relationship with Robbie Ducey with whom he produced many albums. Functioned as teacher, mentor and musical coach for innumerable musicians in Augusta’s music community. Steve is survived by his mother, Harriet Brantley of Augusta, GA, brothers Paul Brantley of NYC, Jamie Brantley of Nashville, TN, sister Felicia Brantley Stanford of Braselton, GA, brother in law Ronnie Stanford, nieces Jamie and Jesse Stanford, great nieces and nephews, Nate Shultz, Piper and Tinley Williford, and his loving companion, Patience Hayes. Steve is preceded in death by his father James Edward Brantley and his adopted brother, Howard Simpers. The Brantley Family and loved ones request the honor of your presence at Steve’s Memorial to be held at Church Of The Good Shepherd, 2230 Walton Way, Augusta, GA on Tuesday, September 24th at 6p.m. Donations may be made to: MUSICARES Web: www.grammy.com/musicares
Our most sincere sympathies to the family and friends of Stephen Lamar Brantley May 27 1955 September 19 2019 (age 64).
Death notice for the town of: Augusta, state: Georgia