Joe Apfelbaum, programming manager at the State Theatre, said Brown's lyrical talent was a key reason for booking him.
"We like to feature intelligent songwriters ... We like people who have something to say and can really deliver their message in a venue this size," he said.
When delivering such significant lyrics, vocals are important.
"He has kind of a gruff vocal delivery -- it's good for his story songs and his songs of life," Greg Gabbard, manager of City Lights Records, said.
His style is unique, Apfelbaum said.
"He's a little country, a little folk, a little blues. His music really has a lot of elements. He's not easily pigeonholed. Generally, though, I'd say that he uses the Americana style. His music is a little edgier than traditional folk music," Apfelbaum said.
Brown has developed an impressive résumé over his 30-year career, including 23 albums. He has also contributed to the radio show The Prairie Home Companion.
Tickets to see Brown perform live are still available at the State Theatre box office downtown at 130 W. College Ave., as well as being available online at www.thestatetheatre.org.
Tickets for the show are $28.