I’m Beardlesque Brittany.

Admittedly, I’m a bit peculiar. I would like to think that I could categorize myself as a part of the indie music collective—which is the lesser of many oddities that I boast.

My being an audiophile was conducive to another hobby, though. While counting the copious amount of concertgoers wearing plaid, I found myself rating the beards, I’m a facial hair fiend.

The appreciation born at concert venues has spiraled and become an obsession of sorts that is a part of a phenomenon—beards are a contribution to society and have become a staple of the indie genre.

Musicians are not only renowned for their heart-wrenching lyrics, lilting vocals or instrumental prowess, but their facial fuzzes as well. Indeed, their artistry on the stage is almost nearly as impressive as their goatee, muttonchops or handlebar ‘stache.

In all seriousness, cultivating and keeping a kempt moustache or beard has become a staple of the musical sphere. Indie music especially, boasts a slew of bodacious—and quite frankly, attractive—beard buffs.

In light of the fact that this month is the hairiest of months—No Shave November—the introduction of this blog on Yellow Bird Project was very fitting.

Each post will have a Beardlesque Brittany rating that judges the overall appearance of the beard, the maintenance and the styling.

The purpose of this blog is to showcase music worthy of praise, coupled with beards worthy of that same praise. Throughout we’ll come to learn what comprises a phenomenal beard, how facial hair affects stage presence and much more.

The fact of the matter is that we’re combining two of the world’s most distinguished forms of art: music and whiskers.

Now that No Shave November is coming to a close Yellow Bird Project is extending month-long appreciation into an everyday normalcy. Expect monthly updates about the best beards in the music scene.

Also, stay tuned for our first beard post below!

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To give a spur to the B–Sides Beard Blog on Yellow Bird Project, we thought it wise to give an overview of the pivotal beards in the music sphere’s past.

These musicians were chosen based majorly upon their ability to transcend the beards that have surfaced over time — considering the recent onslaught of musical facial hair in the indie genre.

3. Jerome “Jerry” Garcia is best known for his lead guitar work, singing and songwriting as a member of Grateful Dead. His music career is vast, and there is absolutely no doubt to his credit as a musician. Better yet, Jerry Garcia completes his ensemble with the wonderful combination of an unkempt head of hair, and beard that cannot be tamed. His melodies intertwine with his wiry hairs and create an ageless image of talent both on the stage and in beard growing; I kid you not. Garcia’s beard lives in infamy.

2. Lennon, McCartney, Ringo and Starr were timid, fresh-faced in the 1950’s and as their music became more renowned, so did their beards. What’s more, they also boasted sideburns that only blessed men are capable of. During the 1960’s they sported moustaches, full beards and heads of hair accomplished a look conveying their dominance of rock & roll in that era. The member’s beards have amassed so much acclaim that Rock Band discussion boards have been dedicated to the subject—and some mention that their facial hair was an icon that inspired men to foster beards to make statements during politically charged period. In short, they defined the HIPPIE.

1. ZZ Top’s beard is a statement within itself that needs absolutely no explanation. I fear not even my future as a beard expert when I declare: ZZ Top’s beard is the most influential in music history. Monumental growing, and the combination of refined and applauded musical talent will not amount to the fantastical beard image that ZZ Top has bestowed upon music and facial hair fiends.

Tune in next month for B–Side Beards on the Yellow Bird Project. Catch me at my oddest as we feature our first indie musician, and their bodacious beard. Until then, happy bearding!

All my love,