The Red Clay Strays delivered one of the most defining moments of the night at the ACM Awards, performing their breakout hit while celebrating a major milestone as they were named “Group of the Year.”
The Alabama-based band originally began as a cover group featuring Brandon Coleman, Andrew Bishop, and Drew Nix. That early foundation eventually helped shape their original sound and even led to opportunities contributing music to films such as Doctor Sleep and Twisters. Their rise accelerated dramatically after their 2022 single “Wondering Why” went viral on TikTok, turning them into one of country music’s fastest-growing acts.
Now, with a new album on the way, The Red Clay Strays continued their rapid ascent with a standout ACM Awards performance that followed their Group of the Year win. Returning to Las Vegas, the ceremony aimed to deliver a historic night, with Shania Twain hosting the event for the first time in her career. But for The Red Clay Strays, the goal was to leave their own mark as nominees and eventual winners in the category.
No matter the competition, the band ensured their presence was unforgettable with a powerful performance of “Demons In Your Choir.”
Only weeks after the ACM Awards, the group is preparing for another major milestone: the release of their third studio album, Grateful. Their debut album Moment of Truth arrived in 2022, followed by Made by These Moments in 2024, both marking key stages in their evolution. Now, Grateful represents the next chapter in their journey.
The Red Clay Strays are “grateful” for Grateful
Frontman Brandon Coleman explained how each album reflects a different stage in their lives and growth as a band.
“Moment of Truth was a big album about having faith in dark times, looking to a higher power and Made By These Moments focused on realizing those dark times that you were having to have faith through, which made you who you are. You made it through when you didn’t think you would.”
He continued, explaining how the new record reflects their current mindset.
“Now we’re at a point where we’re grateful. Looking to God in whatever situation you’re in is a denominator in all of the albums.”
Andrew Bishop also shared his perspective, describing the album as a reflection of their journey so far.
“The title of the album’s a literal meaning to us at this moment in our careers. We’re grateful for how we came out of Made By These Moments and what we have now.”
Source: americansongwriter
