Bud Rebel: From Filmmaking to Father-Son Music Collaborations and Creative Vision for the Future
From filmmaking to music and community impact, Bud Rebel has always embraced a multifaceted approach to his creative journey. In this exclusive interview, the Rockland County-based artist opens up about his influences, achievements, and future aspirations, including his latest song with his son, Myles.
Q: Bud, your creative journey started in 2013, but you’ve mentioned it traces back to second grade. Can you tell us more about that?
A: Yes! While my formal creative path started in 2013 when I wrote my first blog post, I trace the seed of it all back to second grade. That’s when I played Arnold Horshack in a school version of Welcome Back, Kotter. It was a small, funny role, but I realized I loved being in front of an audience and performing. That experience, even at that young age, sparked something in me that I’ve carried ever since.
Q: You’ve mentioned two major influences in your journey: Harry Houdini and Howard Hughes. What about them inspired you?
A: Both Houdini and Hughes have always fascinated me for different reasons. Houdini, for his showmanship and ability to captivate an audience with both skill and mystique, and Hughes for his unconventional thinking—his ability to take risks and think outside the box. These qualities are something I try to apply in my own creative projects, whether it’s film, music, or business.
Q: You have accomplished so much in different areas, from filmmaking to business. What do you consider your greatest achievement?
A: It’s hard to pin down just one, but I would say my greatest achievements come from the work I’ve done in community, charitable, and family roles. Professionally, I’ve produced, written, and acted in two feature films. I’ve also been part of several businesses and have created products under my “Bud Rebel” brand. But the most fulfilling work has been the roles I’ve played in making a difference in the lives of those closest to me, as well as my contributions to my community. The work that impacts people on a personal level holds the most meaning.
Q: You’re currently working on a song with your son, Myles, titled “Waiting.” Can you tell us about that collaboration and what the song means to you?
A: Yes, the song is called “Waiting,” and it was released on October 31st, 2024. Collaborating with Myles on this song has been a deeply meaningful experience. It’s not just about making music—it’s about creating something together that captures our shared experiences, emotions, and bond. The song itself reflects themes of patience, hope, and persistence, and I think it speaks to a lot of people who are waiting for something in their lives, whether it’s change, opportunity, or a deeper sense of purpose.
Q: You’ve also mentioned big aspirations for the future, like producing another feature film and expanding your podcast. What else is on the horizon for you?
A: Yes, producing another feature film is definitely a priority. I’ve got a catalog of stories I’m excited to bring to life on screen. Beyond that, I’m looking to build on the momentum of my podcast, exploring more thought-provoking conversations and creative ideas with guests from different fields. I’m also passionate about developing new products under my brand, continuing to grow my family’s music ventures, and possibly playing a bigger role in public policy. I truly believe there are ways I can contribute to making the world better, and I plan to use every opportunity I can to do so.
Q: Looking at the people you admire, such as Elon Musk, Donald Trump, and Tom Cruise, what do you think you can learn from their achievements?
A: I admire Elon Musk for his groundbreaking innovations and the way he pushes the boundaries of technology and space exploration. His ability to think decades ahead of time is something I try to incorporate into my own work. Donald Trump’s perseverance through adversity, especially in the face of public scrutiny, has taught me a lot about resilience. And Tom Cruise? His longevity in Hollywood, combined with his ability to reinvent himself, is truly inspiring. Each of these figures has shown me different aspects of perseverance, innovation, and self-belief that I aspire to apply in my own journey.
Q: What advice would you give to someone starting their creative journey?
A: My biggest piece of advice would be to stay authentic and true to yourself. The road can be long, and it’s easy to get distracted by trends or other people’s expectations. But the real magic happens when you connect deeply with your own voice and vision. Take risks, learn from your failures, and always remember why you started in the first place. And, of course, be patient—nothing great happens overnight.
Q: How do you balance your personal life with your professional goals, especially when it comes to family?
A: That’s a great question. Family is my foundation, and everything I do professionally ties back to wanting to provide, protect, and inspire my loved ones. It’s a delicate balance, but I’ve learned to prioritize my time, be present in the moment, and make sure my work never comes at the expense of the people I care about most. The truth is, the two aren’t separate for me. My family has always been a part of my creative journey, whether it’s through music collaborations like with Myles or through the support they’ve given me in my business and film endeavors.
Q: Finally, what can your fans expect from you in the coming year?
A: I’ve got some exciting things in the works! Expect more music, including additional collaborations with Myles. I’m also planning to release another film from my catalog, and I’ll continue to build my podcast into a platform for meaningful conversations. My goal is to keep challenging myself creatively, while also continuing to contribute positively to my community and family. The future is filled with possibilities, and I’m ready to make the most of it.
Stay Connected with Bud Rebel
Follow Bud Rebel’s creative journey and discover his latest music, films, and more on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major streaming platforms. https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/budrebel/waiting-feat-mylez–adam-gloc
