Velvet Rodeo win big at the Grand Ole Opry
We caught up with Velvet Rodeo to reflect on their whirlwind journey through 2024. The dynamic duo shared insights into their Josie Award win at the Grand Ole Opry, their rising influence in Nashville, and the story of how their partnership evolved into the powerhouse act it is today.
It’s not all cowboy hats and bullhorns… though, sometimes, it is. Meet Velvet Rodeo, the duo shaking up the country and western music scene and earning their reputation as Nashville’s Wild West power couple.
From North Carolina to Nashville, the incredible love story of Leah & Bryan, combined with their passion for country music with a western flair, has captured the hearts of their fans worldwide.
They both began their musical journeys in the churches of North Carolina, with a profound appreciation for vocal harmonies, both confessing a love for 90s country music. Fast forward a few years, the pair meet at a musical production of Oklahoma! and then in 2022, they took a leap of faith and made the move across state, to the home of country music, Nashville.
Their EP Ghost Town was released in 2020, launching a full 11-song album back in 2023 titled ‘Back in the Saddle’. Tune in below:
Their hard work and authenticity paid off in 2024 when they were honoured with a Josie Award at the iconic Grand Ole Opry. Reflecting on this milestone, Leah and Bryan describe it as a surreal moment that validated their decision to chase their dreams and reinforced their commitment to creating music that connects with people.
For those who don’t know, the Josie Music Awards (JMA’s) is the largest, most prestigious award ceremony held annually for the independent music industry since 2015. The award winners are reviewed and selected by an all-pro-panel of experts in the music field such as Grammy Winners, CMA Writers, record labels and promotion professionals with legendary clients.
CountryLine’s very own Nathalie Cox chats to Velvet Rodeo at the Westwood lodge, NC, to get the juice:
[00:40] How Velvet Rodeo began
[01:58] Inspiration for the sound of Velvet Rodeo
[03:27] The big move to music city
[04:59] Playing Broadway bars in Nashville
[06:55] Winning at the JMA’s
[08:23] Velvet Rodeo taking on 2025!
They hint at new music for 2025, with some other surprises along the way! From their humble beginnings in North Carolina to becoming a celebrated act in Nashville, they’ve remained true to themselves and their roots… For more guitar slinging and vocal showdowns, you can follow their journey here.