Red Clay Strays

About

Red Clay Strays emerged as one of the breakout bands of 2024-25, representing Mobile, Alabama's contribution to the evolving Red Dirt and southern rock landscape. The six-piece band—comprised of Brandon Coleman (lead vocals, guitar), Drew Nix (guitar, vocals), Zach Rishel (guitar), Andrew Bishop (bass), John Hall (drums), and Sevans Henderson (keys)—spent years playing barrooms and building a grassroots following before their signing to RCA Records marked their arrival on the national stage. Their journey from Alabama dive bars to major label success and ACM recognition exemplifies the independent spirit that defines the Red Dirt movement. Their sophomore album Made by These Moments, produced by Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb in Savannah, Georgia, debuted in the top 10 on Billboard's Top Country Albums chart (No. 9) and reached No. 29 on the all-genre Billboard 200. The album showcases the band's ability to blend southern rock intensity with Red Dirt soul, creating a sound that honors their Alabama roots while connecting with the broader Americana and Red Dirt audience. Cobb's production brings out the raw emotional power in Coleman's vocals and the band's tight instrumental interplay, resulting in one of 2024's most critically acclaimed country and roots music releases. The band's hard work and musical excellence were recognized when they won the ACM Award for New Duo or Group of the Year in 2025—a milestone that arrived via a congratulatory phone call from Miranda Lambert while the band was recording with Cobb. This achievement marked a validation of their years of relentless touring and commitment to authentic, uncompromising music. The award also spotlighted Alabama's growing influence in the Red Dirt and Americana movements, traditionally dominated by Texas, Oklahoma, and the broader South. Red Clay Strays have proven themselves as a formidable live act, with their shows described as high-energy performances that showcase both their southern rock roots and their ability to deliver emotionally resonant ballads. Their festival appearances throughout 2025, including major Red Dirt and country festivals across the South and Midwest, have introduced their music to thousands of new fans and established them as must-see performers on the touring circuit. As they continue their Get Right Tour through 2025 and into 2026, Red Clay Strays represent a new generation of southern artists blending traditional country, rock, and Red Dirt influences into a sound that feels both timeless and contemporary. Their Alabama heritage, combined with their national ambitions and major label backing, positions them as one of the most important new acts shaping the future of Red Dirt and southern country music.