Amen.

There’s no doubt that The Red Clay Strays have been red-hot over the last year. Riding the highs of their sophomore album, Made by These Moments, in 2024, the Alabama group broke out into the mainstream back in November. Not only did they deliver a killer performance of “People Hatin’” at the 59th annual CMA Awards, more importantly, they also dethroned Old Dominion as Vocal Group of the Year en route to their first-ever CMA win.

They’ve kept the momentum lately as well, dethroning Old Dominion once again, this time taking home their first-ever ACM Award for Group of the Year in May, dropping their stellar junior album, Grateful, in June and headlining Nissan Stadium on the third night of CMA Fest the same month.

Their impact goes far beyond their quality music, however. While listening through their discography, it shouldn’t take too long to conclude that they’re creating art not for fame or fortune but instead to make an impact on the lives of their fans and most importantly, spread the Word of God.

With plenty of moving tracks about faith, mental health and even political division in the country, highlighted poignantly on their song inspired by the assassination of Charlie Kirk, “People Hatin’,” it becomes increasingly clear that Red Clay is more concerned about the fact that their music is touching people spiritually. Of course, this can be found heavily on their aforementioned new album, Grateful, as well as past tracks such as “God Does,” “On My Knees” and “Devil In My Ear.”

With that being said, one of frontman, Brandon Coleman’s, most powerful testimonies and reflections didn’t come from one of their songs. Instead, it came from a conversation with comedian and podcaster, Theo Von, back in 2024.

During his conversation with Von, Coleman would explain that he views Red Clay’s rise to prominence as a gift from God. Furthermore, he’d note that it’s an opportunity to give back and raise Him up, describing the relationship as back-and-forth in nature.

“God gives you a platform, and it’s a constant tradeoff. God raises you up and gives you a platform, and then you turn around and give it back to God and raise Him up — then He raises you up. That’s just the way I’ve always looked at it.”

He’d end the short but sweet reflection by noting how anyone in his position has the choice to make their fame and platform about themselves or about God, explaining how he and the rest of the Strays choose to give it back to Him.

“God gives you talents. He gives you drives to do things, then gives you a platform. You can either make it about yourself or turn around and give the glory back to God. It’s just that constant tradeoff that’s always going on.” 

It’s pretty clear to see why the Alabama natives have been so successful over the past few years. Beyond the stellar music, they’ve remained one of the most humble and generous groups in the entire genre. In a time filled with so much selfishness and Godlessness, it’s beyond refreshing to see a group as popular as Red Clay constantly use their platform to praise Him every step of the way.

“God Does”