Are The Red Clay Strays Actually a Country Band?

While they’ve won country music awards, does the “Wondering Why” band actually fit into the genre?

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The Red Clay Strays are a band formed in Mobile, Alabama, in 2016 whose music blends Southern rock, soul, and country, led by singer Brandon Coleman alongside Drew Nix, Zach Rishel, Andrew Bishop, and John Hall.

The group built its following through years of touring and gained wider recognition with “Wondering Why,” a breakout song from its 2022 debut album, “Moment of Truth.”

The Red Clay Strays won the ACM Award for new duo or group of the year in 2025, the CMA Award for vocal group of the year in 2025, and the ACM Award for group of the year in 2026.

Despite those country music honors, members have described their sound as Americana or rock ’n’ roll, with bassist Andrew Bishop saying their music brings together several American musical styles.

The Red Clay Strays will bring their Grateful Tour to Maine Savings Amphitheater on Bangor’s waterfront July 23, 2027.

The concert is scheduled for 7 p.m., and tickets are available through Ticketmaster.

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And there you have it! The band has found major success within country music while continuing to describe its sound as something broader than a single genre.

What are your thoughts? Do you consider The Red Clay Strays a country band? We’d love to hear from you! Feel free to join the conversation by messaging us on the app.

12 Things You Need To Know Before Going To A Show At The Maine Savings Amphitheater

Here are some things you want to keep in mind before attending a show at the Maine Savings Amphitheater in Bangor. Check out the full list of policies HERE