Interview with Reckless Kelly: “With today’s Americana, we finally have a common home”
Reckless Kelly, with their distinctive blend of rock and country music, has been a prominent figure in the music scene since 1996. Led by Willy and Cody Braun, the band has evolved over nearly three decades of creating music. The upcoming release of their latest album, “The Last Frontier,” featuring a collaboration with Kelly Willis, marks a significant milestone in their impressive career.
As the band approaches its 30th anniversary and prepares to commemorate the 20th anniversary of their album “Wicked Twisted Road” in 2025, followed by the 40th anniversary of The Braun Brothers Reunion festival this summer, Reckless Kelly’s impact on the music industry continues to resonate. Based in Austin, the brothers Willy and Cody Braun, together with drummer Jay Nazz, have solidified their place in the Texas music scene with an impressive discography spanning 17 albums.
Looking ahead to their first-ever performance in Spain, where they will be supporting Lucinda Williams and headlining the Azkena Rock Festival in Vitoria-Gasteiz, Reckless Kelly expressed their excitement about visiting the country. Willy Braun’s eager anticipation of immersing themselves in the landscapes vividly depicted by Hemingway in his novels reflects the band’s enthusiasm for connecting with new audiences and exploring new horizons.
With plans to scale back their touring after 2025 while focusing on recording and releasing new music, Reckless Kelly remains committed to their craft. Willy Braun emphasizes the importance of maintaining a balance between live performances and studio work, ensuring that the band continues to deliver quality music to their dedicated fan base. Collaborations with artists like Steve Earle and upcoming live performances further showcase the band’s versatility and enduring legacy in the music industry.
As they reflect on their illustrious career and look forward to new projects, Reckless Kelly remains dedicated to crafting meaningful songs and engaging with their audience. With a rich discography that includes fan-favorites like “Bulletproof” and their recent release “American Jackpot/American Girls,” the band continues to push boundaries and explore new musical territories.
As Willy Braun discusses the band’s decision to tour less frequently in the coming years, he affirms their commitment to producing high-quality music and engaging with their fans through live performances and studio recordings. Their enduring camaraderie and shared passion for music have been the driving force behind Reckless Kelly’s success, and their upcoming projects promise to captivate audiences and further solidify their legacy in the music industry.