Genre
Western Swing
Western Swing blends the infectious energy of swing jazz with the twang of country and folk traditions, creating a danceable, horn-driven sound that's equally at home in a honky-tonk or a concert hall. Born from the American West, this genre brings together fiddles, steel guitars, and brass sections to craft music that's both rootsy and rhythmically adventurous. Artists like Rosy Nolan, Kenny Feidler, The Soda Crackers, and Micky Braun are keeping this vibrant tradition alive, proving that Western Swing remains a vital force in contemporary roots music.
Artists
Episodes
Rosy Nolan
Los Angeles Artist Paying Homage to Old Time Country & American Roots | Rosy Nolan
Los Angeles country artist Rosy Nolan’s LP Main Attraction is steeped in Americana roots, Western swing, honky tonk, and old-time country, paying homage to the great American records of the 1920s–1940s. The album is drenched in heartache and longing—core themes that have defined Nolan’s songwriting throughout her career.Designed to take the listener on an emotional journey, Main Attraction kicks off with lively, toe-tapping tracks perfect for a two-step, then slowly descends into haunting ballads that’ll shatter your heart. It’s a record that lifts you up, breaks you down, and ultimately reminds you that you’re not alone. It’s the perfect album for anyone seeking comfort in trying times.
The Soda Crackers
The Soda Crackers - Talk Bakersfield Sound, B-Sides & Classic Country | Rugged Revival
With a goal to bring back the “classics,” The Soda Crackers – a five-piece band whose average age barely cracks the 30-something barrier – are in full swing. Make that – full Bakersfield Sound with a nice helping of Western Swing thrown in as a side dish of sorts. The Soda Crackers celebrate the unsung heroes of the Bakersfield Sound, the B-side hits that never get played, and the showmanship plus the instrumentation that all the greats brought to the smoky ol’ beer joints & dance halls from years gone by.
Micky Braun
Micky Braun – Life on the Road with Micky & The Motorcars
Micky & The Motorcars are a powerhouse of a group. Led by brothers Micky Braun (Vocals/Guitar) and Gary Braun (Vocals/Guitar/Harmonica/Mandolin) rounded out with Bill Corbin (Bass), Pablo Trujillio (Guitar/Pedal Steel), and Bobby Paugh (Drums). Micky and the Motorcars hail from Austin, Texas by way of Stanley, Idaho. Micky and Gary are the sons of Western Swing musician Muzzie Braun and along with their brothers Willy and Cody (Reckless Kelly) spent their childhood on the stage and were veterans of the stage. Once moving from Idaho and settling in Austin the band released Which Way From Here (2002), Ain't in it for the Money (2005), Careless (2007), Naive (2008), Raise My Glass (2011) , Hearts From Above (2014), Across The Pond - Live in Germany (2015) and Long Time Comin' (2019). The band tours the country, averaging 100+ shows a year and continues to draw fans nearly 20 years after forming.
Kenny Feidler
Kenny Feidler – Gritty Western Rock from the Rodeo Circuit
Kenny Feidler’s sound is dark, gritty, western rock n roll filled with thoughtful, honest songwriting. Feidler’s path to the stage started on the rodeo circuit, writing songs about the life and selling his music from the trunk of an old Cadillac. Now he racks up the miles with his band, traveling from his home on the plains of Western South Dakota, to venues across the country.
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FAQ
What is Western Swing?
Western Swing is a genre that fuses country, folk, and swing jazz influences, characterized by energetic arrangements, prominent horns, and fiddles that make it perfect for dancing. It originated in the American West and continues to thrive through artists like The Soda Crackers and Kenny Feidler who honor its improvisational, big-band spirit.
Who are the best Western Swing artists right now?
The Rugged Revival directory features rising talents including Rosy Nolan, Kenny Feidler, The Soda Crackers, and Micky Braun, each bringing their own contemporary take to this classic, danceable sound.
Is Western Swing the same as country music?
While Western Swing has deep roots in country tradition, it's distinctly its own thing—the addition of swing rhythms, brass instruments, and jazzy improvisation sets it apart from conventional country, making it a more dance-oriented and musically adventurous genre.