End of an Era – and the Beginning of Something New
The Red Clay Strays have officially marked a milestone in their career, earning their first CMA Award for Vocal Group of the Year. Their win brings an end to Old Dominion’s remarkable seven-year streak in the category, signaling a major shift in the country music landscape.
The six-member band has brought a fresh, electrifying energy to the genre ever since their breakout in 2023, fueled by the viral success of their romantic hit “Wondering Why”. Their unique sound and rapid rise have kept fans and critics captivated over the past few years.
A Stunning Moment at the CMA Awards
When The Red Clay Strays were announced as the winners during last night’s ceremony at Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena, the audience was visibly surprised. Many had assumed that Old Dominion would continue their dominance in the category for years to come.
While some corners of the modern country world had grown weary of Old Dominion’s long-running reign, there is still strong appreciation for the group’s uplifting, country-pop approach. Their most recent album, Barbara, showcased the band’s commitment to evolving artistically.
Still, the excitement surrounding The Red Clay Strays’ win feels well-earned. After another year of skyrocketing success and cultural impact, the band is finally receiving the recognition so many fans have felt was long overdue.
A Humorous – and Honest – Reflection from Brandon Coleman
During their post-win press conference, frontman Brandon Coleman entertained the room with a candid reflection on the band’s eclectic musical origins. He joked about their genre-blending tendencies, noting:
“We were a lot of different genres when we started playing together. John was more hard rock, Andrew was more funk and blues, Zach was more rock, Sevans was more jazz, and I was more country. I was the hick of the group.”
He went on to explain why he often says the band doesn’t quite play traditional country music:
“Country music has a very special place in my heart, and that’s why I always say we don’t really play country music. When we get ready to make an actual country record, it’ll be country music. I think the genre deserves that respect. If you’re playing rock ’n’ roll but calling it country, that’s doing the genre a disservice. But we’re all country boys and Southern gentlemen, so we’re grateful to be accepted by the community — and we’ll eventually make some actual country music, too.”
What Comes Next for The Red Clay Strays?
The band’s comments have only fueled anticipation for what their future “fully country” project might sound like. Until then, fans can continue enjoying their distinctive mix of rock, gospel, and Southern soul that defines their two acclaimed albums, Moment of Truth and Made by These Moments.
With their first CMA Award now under their belt and an ever-growing fanbase, The Red Clay Strays are stepping confidently into a new chapter — one that promises even more evolution, creativity, and genre-shaping influence.
@hanleyriggs @The Red Clay Strays expecting their first CMA Award for Group of the Year! #cmaawards2025 #cmaawardsbackstage ♬ original sound – Hanley Riggs