Ice Cream Makes Everything Better, Says Steve Harris
Hillbilly Vegas’ vibrant music captured the attention of an independent Nashville label in 2011, leading to the release of their debut album “Ringo Manor,” which sold over 10,000 copies thanks to the hit single “Little Miss Rough and Tumble.” Since then, the band has achieved significant success by charting five songs on Billboard’s Rock charts, including hits like “Let It Ride,” which peaked at #10 after 13 weeks, and other popular tracks like “Feels Good,” “High Time For A Good Time,” “Hell To Pay,” “Two Gun Town,” and the fan-favorite “Shake It Like A Hillbilly.”
Known for their high-energy live performances, Hillbilly Vegas has a reputation for creating a lively and inclusive party atmosphere, catering to diverse audiences across rock and country music genres. Their versatile appeal has seen them share the stage with prominent rock acts such as Blackberry Smoke, The Kentucky Headhunters, and country legends like Alabama, Travis Tritt, Blake Shelton, and Wynonna Judd, showcasing their ability to entertain a wide range of music fans.
Having performed at major events like NASCAR Revents and notable bike rallies, including the famed Sturgis Motorcycle Rally, Hillbilly Vegas has built a dedicated fan base in the UK and thrilled audiences at festivals like Maid of Stone and Steelhouse. With their latest album “A La Mode” set for release on Friday, May 8, the band is gearing up to elevate their music to new heights, blending their signature rock sound with fresh elements that promise to redefine the rock and roll spirit.
In an exclusive interview with heavy music publication, HEAVY, lead vocalist and founding member Steve Harris shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming album release. Describing the album’s title as whimsical and fun, Steve expressed his hopes that fans would enjoy the music as much as the band enjoyed creating it. Reflecting on the musical aspects of the album, Steve admitted that their songwriting process is often driven by observational storytelling and personal experiences, aiming to incorporate diverse narratives into each track.
Delving into the details of “A La Mode,” Steve highlighted the album’s eclectic mix of ballads, heavy rock anthems, country-inspired tunes, and boogie-woogie rhythms, emphasizing that the title symbolizes the notion that “everything’s better with ice cream.” He also revealed that the single “Mr. Midnight” features the iconic vocals of Paul Rodgers, underscoring the band’s collaborative spirit and their reverence for rock music legends.
As the conversation shifted towards Hillbilly Vegas’ origin story and their Nashville journey, Steve reminisced about their struggles to navigate the city’s predominantly country music scene with their rock-oriented approach. Despite facing initial challenges, the band’s perseverance paid off with their first radio play leading to a significant record deal in Nashville. Looking ahead, Steve disclosed plans for a U.S. summer tour from June to August, marking their return to the American music scene after a three-year hiatus, while acknowledging their increasing popularity in streaming markets like Australia.
With “A La Mode” poised to captivate listeners with its diverse musical tapestry and spirited performances, Hillbilly Vegas continues to break barriers and forge their unique path in the music industry. Embracing their roots in rock and country music, while exploring new creative horizons, the band promises an electrifying experience for fans around the world as they launch their latest musical chapter.