Úlla Musician Rich Brotherton

Rich Brotherton grew up in Georgia but has lived in Austin, Texas for many years. He studied Music Theory and Composition at The Colorado College followed by two stays in Ireland to soak up traditional Irish music. For 25 years, he was a member of the Robert Earl Keen band. Until El Mercado Restaurant closed in December, 2025, Rich also performed as a member of the Purgatory Players at El Mercado's Gospel Brunch on Sunday mornings, with all proceeds supporting the Central Texas Food Bank. In addition, Rich owns and runs Ace Recording, an audio recording studio.

In 2025, Rich was diagnosed with ALS. Fellow musicians Andrea Magee, Pat Byrne, and Scrappy Joe Newcomb organized a benefit which took place on December 9, 2025 at the Paramount Theatre in Austin. All proceeds from the event benefited the Brotherton family to assist with upcoming medical and care expenses, via the local nonprofit Music Helps. This event featured artists from Austin and beyond who hold Rich dear, including many he has toured and/or recorded with since he moved to Austin in 1985. MC'd by Jody Denburg, performers included Lyle Lovett, Charley Crockett, Patty Griffin, Loudon Wainwright III, Jimmie Dale Gilmore & Butch Hancock, Bruce Robison, Ed Miller, Mary Gauthier & Jaimee Harris, Warren Hood, Kathy McCarty, Scrappy Jud Newcomb, Andrea Magee, Pat Byrne, David Halley, Kris McKay, Beaver Nelson, Michael Fracasso, Gwil Owen, Matt Harlan, and others.The benefit was streamed live and the recording can be viewed here on YouTube. The show begins at 42:25 of the video.