Willy Braun Of Reckless Kelly Offers Insight Into What Makes His Band Distinctive

Reckless Kelly boasts an indomitable career all their own. Led by brothers Willy (vocals/guitar) and Cody Braun (vocals/fiddle/mandolin/harmonica), they’re often referred to as an “alternative country-rock” outfit, but in truth they’re much more than that broad description otherwise implies. The group first formed in Stanley, Idaho in February 1996 and then moved to
Austin, Texas, where they quickly became one of the leading lights of that fabled music scene. The Brauns, who got their start by touring with their dad in his Western swing band, Muzzie Braun and the Boys, also include lead guitarist Casey Pollock, bass guitarist Chris Schelske and drummer Jay Nazz. Of course, anytime a label is put on a particular artist or ensemble, it tends to confine them to a particular genre. Braun offers his own perspective on the ramifications of being typecast in any one particular way. “It’s been interesting to watch the terminology evolve over the course of the last 30 years,” he once told an interviewer. “It seems like the terms have changed to fit the artists, and not so much the other way around. The term ‘country music’ got hijacked to the point that actual country artists are now called ‘Americana,’ as well as bluegrass, folk, and most things that don’t really have a home on commercial radio these days.
The folks at Americana radio have done a great job of keeping the genre rooted in real honest music, and for the most part, they’ve managed to keep the truck - nuts country crowd out of it. We’re psyched to be associated with the Americana title, but if someone asks I usually say we’re a ‘county-rock’ band.” He provides further explanation when he shares his thoughts with Lee and Billy on the new episode of My Backstage Pass. Learn more about Willy and Reckless Kelly at https://recklesskelly.com

Podcast producer/cohost Billy Hubbard is an Americana Singer/Songwriter and former Regional Director of A&R for a Grammy winning company. Billy is a signed artist with Spectra Music Group and co-founder of the iconic venue "The Station" in East TN. Billy's new album was released by Spectra Records 10/2023. Learn more about Billy at http://www.BillyHubbard.com

Host Lee Zimmerman is a freelance music writer whose articles have appeared in several leading music industry publications. Lee is a former promotions representative for ABC and Capital Records and director of communications for various CBS affiliated television stations. Lee recently authored the book "Thirty Years Behind The Glass" about legendary producer and engineer Jim Gaines.