The Red Clay Strays Shine at the 2025 CMA Awards

It was a memorable evening for The Red Clay Strays, who celebrated a significant milestone by winning the prestigious Vocal Group of the Year award at the 2025 CMA Awards held on November 19th. This recognition marked a pivotal moment for the rising Alabama band, captivating both new audiences and long-time fans since their debut album, Moment of Truth, was released in 2022.

A Soulful Performance

The band took the stage with a powerful rendition of “People Hatin’,” a song that blends gospel and rock influences while advocating for unity. Their emotional performance resonated deeply with the audience, solidifying their reputation as one of the most impactful acts of the night.

Reflecting on Their CMA Win

In an intimate backstage interview post-award acceptance, frontman Brandon Coleman expressed gratitude for the honor but clarified the band’s relationship with the country genre. “We’re very thankful for it,” Coleman stated. “We were a lot of different genres when we started playing together… I was the hick of the group. So country music has a very special place in my heart.”

He elaborated, “That’s the reason I always say we don’t really play country music — because when we get ready to make an actual country record, it’ll be country music.”

Respect for the Genre

Coleman emphasized that his comments stem from a profound respect for country music, rather than a desire to distance themselves from it. “I think country music deserves to be recognized as a genre,” he explained to the audience. “So if you’re just playing rock n’ roll music but calling it country music, I think that’s doing country a disservice.”

Despite their musical influences leaning towards Southern rock, blues, and soul, the band remains proud of their Southern heritage. Coleman concluded, “But we are all country boys and we’re Southern gentlemen, so we’re very happy to be accepted by the community — and we’ll eventually make some actual country music, too.”

Rooted in Alabama

Since their formation in Mobile, Alabama, in 2016, The Red Clay Strays have worn their roots proudly, crafting a sound that masterfully blends faith, soul, and rock-and-roll. Their performance of “People Hatin’” served not only as an introduction to their music but also as a declaration of their mission.

While the band may not fully embrace the country label just yet, the fans and the CMA have clearly shown that they belong in the country music scene. With a new album set to release in 2026, The Red Clay Strays are poised to continue their journey and surprise audiences with what’s next.

A Message of Hope

On stage, Coleman delivered an inspiring message: “Work hard and trust God. We’re good.” This sentiment reflects the band’s dedication to their craft and their unwavering faith in their musical journey.

Conclusion

The Red Clay Strays’ victory at the 2025 CMA Awards not only signifies their growing influence in the music industry but also underscores the importance of authenticity and respect for genre boundaries. As they continue to evolve and expand their sound, their commitment to their roots and their fans remains steadfast. With much more to come, the future looks bright for this talented group from Alabama.

FAQs

Who are The Red Clay Strays?

The Red Clay Strays are an Alabama-based band known for their blend of Southern rock, blues, and soul influences. They gained recognition with their debut album, Moment of Truth, released in 2022.

What award did The Red Clay Strays win at the 2025 CMA Awards?

The Red Clay Strays won the Vocal Group of the Year award at the 2025 CMA Awards.

What is the song “People Hatin’” about?