How to Hire RECKLESS KELLY For Your Event!
Members:
Willy Braun, Cody Braun, Ryan Engleman, Jay Nazz, Joe Miller
Hire: Reckless Kelly
Reckless Kelly is an American alternative country-rock band known for their energetic live performances, intricate songwriting, and a sound that blends elements of rock, country, Americana, and roots music. Formed in 1996, the band hails from Austin, Texas, and has earned a dedicated following through years of relentless touring, critically acclaimed albums, and a commitment to staying true to their musical roots.
Formation and Early Years
Reckless Kelly was founded by brothers Willy and Cody Braun, who were born into a musical family in the small town of Stanley, Idaho. The Brauns were raised in a household where music was a central part of life, thanks to their father, Muzzie Braun, who was a member of the well-known Western swing band Muzzie Braun & the Boys. From an early age, the Braun brothers were exposed to a wide range of musical influences, including country, bluegrass, rock, and Western swing.
In the early 1990s, Willy and Cody Braun began performing with their father’s band, gaining valuable experience on the road. However, they soon decided to branch out and form their own group. After briefly performing as the band “The Prairie Mutts”, they moved to Austin, Texas, and officially formed Reckless Kelly in 1996. The name of the band was inspired by the infamous Australian outlaw Ned Kelly, reflecting the band’s rebellious spirit and independent attitude.
The original lineup of Reckless Kelly included Willy Braun on lead vocals and guitar, Cody Braun on fiddle, mandolin, harmonica, and vocals, along with David Abeyta on guitar, Jay Nazz on drums, and Chris Schelske on bass.
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Breakthrough and Early Success
Reckless Kelly quickly became a fixture in the Austin music scene, known for their high-energy performances and unique blend of country, rock, and Americana. They released their debut album, “Millican,” in 1998, which was named after the small town of Millican, Texas. The album was well-received and helped establish the band as a rising force in the Texas music scene. Songs like “Back Around” and “Walton Love” showcased the band’s ability to craft compelling lyrics with a rootsy, rock-driven sound.
In 2000, they released their sophomore album, “The Day,” which further solidified their reputation as a band to watch. The album featured a mix of introspective ballads and rollicking rockers, demonstrating the band’s versatility. Tracks like “Crazy Eddie’s Last Hurrah” became fan favorites and are still staples of their live shows today.
Continued Growth and Critical Acclaim
Throughout the 2000s, Reckless Kelly continued to build on their success with a string of well-received albums. In 2003, they released “Under the Table and Above the Sun,” which was a turning point in their career. The album was produced by Ray Kennedy and featured a more polished sound while still maintaining the raw energy that defined the band. The track “Nobody’s Girl” became one of their most popular songs, earning significant radio airplay and introducing the band to a wider audience.
In 2005, Reckless Kelly released “Wicked Twisted Road,” an album that is often considered one of their finest works. The title track, a poignant reflection on life on the road, became an anthem for the band and resonated deeply with fans. The album also included standout tracks like “Seven Nights in Eire,” a Celtic-infused ode to a memorable week in Ireland, and “Broken Heart,” a testament to the band’s ability to craft emotionally powerful songs.
Reckless Kelly continued to release strong albums throughout the 2000s and 2010s, including “Bulletproof” (2008), “Good Luck & True Love” (2011), and “Long Night Moon” (2013). Each album showcased the band’s growth as musicians and songwriters, and they consistently received praise from critics and fans alike.
Musical Style and Influences
Reckless Kelly’s sound is a dynamic blend of country, rock, Americana, and roots music. They draw inspiration from a wide range of artists, including Willie Nelson, Steve Earle, Bruce Springsteen, and Tom Petty. Their music often features a mix of electric and acoustic instrumentation, with Cody Braun’s fiddle and mandolin playing a prominent role in defining their unique sound.
Lyrically, Reckless Kelly’s songs often explore themes of love, loss, life on the road, and the struggles and joys of everyday life. Their songwriting is known for its depth and storytelling, and they have a knack for crafting songs that resonate with listeners on a personal level.
Live Performances and Touring
One of Reckless Kelly’s greatest strengths is their live performances. The band is known for their energetic and engaging shows, which have helped them build a loyal fan base across the country. They have played at major music festivals, including Austin City Limits, Lollapalooza, and Stagecoach, and have shared the stage with artists like Robert Earl Keen, Micky & the Motorcars (which includes their brothers Gary and Micky Braun), and the Turnpike Troubadours.
Reckless Kelly’s live shows are characterized by a mix of old favorites, deep cuts, and new material, all delivered with the passion and intensity that has become their trademark.
Awards and Recognition
Over the years, Reckless Kelly has received numerous accolades for their contributions to the music industry. They have won multiple awards from the Americana Music Association and the Texas Regional Radio Music Awards. In 2014, their album “Long Night Moon” won a Grammy Award for Best Recording Package, highlighting the band’s attention to detail not just in their music, but in the presentation of their work as well.
Recent Work and Legacy
In 2020, Reckless Kelly released a double album, “American Jackpot / American Girls,” which further cemented their status as one of the most respected bands in the Americana and country music scenes. The albums explore themes of American life, love, and history, showcasing the band’s continued growth as songwriters and musicians.
Their influence extends beyond their own music. They have played a significant role in the development of the Texas/Red Dirt music scene, inspiring countless other artists and bands with their dedication to their craft and their commitment to maintaining creative independence.
Philanthropy and Personal Lives
Beyond their music, Reckless Kelly has also been active in philanthropy. The band established the Reckless Kelly Celebrity Softball Jam, an annual charity event that combines a celebrity softball game with a music festival. The event has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for various charitable causes, including youth sports programs and the Red River Songwriters’ Association.
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