The Cadillac Three

The Cadillac Three is a Nashville-based country rock trio composed of Jaren Johnston (lead vocals and guitar), Kelby Ray (lap steel guitar, bass guitar, and vocals), and Neil Mason (drums and vocals). Formed by childhood friends after the dissolution of their previous group American Bang, the trio initially performed as The Cadillac Black before changing their name due to a trademark issue and signing with Big Machine Records. Their sound blends Southern rock riffs with country storytelling, drawing influences from bands such as Lynyrd Skynyrd and ZZ Top, and they are known for energetic live performances.

The Cadillac Three's discography includes six studio albums, each highlighting their evolving yet distinctive style. Their debut self-titled album, "The Cadillac Three," was followed by "Tennessee Mojo," "Bury Me in My Boots," the covers album "Legacy," and the double album "Country Fuzz" and "Tabasco & Sweet Tea." "Bury Me in My Boots" debuted at No. 5 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, selling 11,000 copies in its first week. In addition to their own recordings, the trio has contributed to the country music industry as songwriters and collaborators. Johnston has written singles for Keith Urban, Tim McGraw, Steven Tyler, Dallas Smith, and Jake Owen, and is a multiple-time Grammy-nominated songwriter and producer.

The Cadillac Three has developed a dedicated following in the United States and internationally. The group was named Best New Band at the UK Classic Rock Roll of Honour Awards and received a CMA International Award nomination for International Artist Achievement. The band has toured with artists such as Eric Church, Dierks Bentley, Metallica, and Aerosmith. Collectively and individually, they have received nominations for Grammy and two consecutive ACM Awards Group of the Year, while Johnston earned a CMA Triple Play for three No. 1 hits within 12 months. Their music has also been featured on television, including appearances on ABC's "Nashville," as well as placements on CBS's "CSI Miami" and CW's "Vampire Diaries" and "Heart of Dixie."

The Cadillac Three's recent work reflects both personal challenges and creative growth. The loss of Johnston's father, former Grand Ole Opry drummer Jerry Ray Johnston, influenced their sixth studio album, "The Years Go Fast." The ACM-nominated album explores themes of resilience and vulnerability, showcasing the band's continued evolution within the country rock genre. Johnston, Ray, and Mason, who have played in bands together for nearly 20 years, maintain a strong bond that anchors their music and drives their ongoing commitment to performance and songwriting.