Sterling Drake made his initial music debut with several covers of classic songs. His talent was apparent, as was his authenticity. He crooned in smoky rooms across the country as old cowboys and young buckaroos, waitresses, cowgirls, and children all listened to the guitar man’s song. His music was stripped down and honest, and yet guarded, as though there was something still to be unleashed.
Upon the recent release of his EP “Roll the Dice”, it became apparent that his music has transformed. While his respect for the legends before him has not waned, his unique style has burst forth, proclaiming these melodies are those of Sterling Drake; ballads of long days in the saddle living life with a guitar and a woman he loves. Their depth and originality speak of his current stability—as an artist who is here to stay.
Drake is no stranger to life on the road and has been on tour since he was 17. He writes his songs, plays his instrument, and greets his fans. Not surprisingly, this willingness to work and learn has earned him friends in every town around the country. After years of opening for other talented musicians, it is now his name headlining the marquee. Ever down to earth, he hasn’t let the stage separate him from his listeners and still enjoys building relationships with the people who listen to his music, referring to fans as friends.
When not on the road, he makes a living as a ranch hand in Montana and his affinity for ranch life is apparent in his buckaroo wardrobe. These values and lived experiences play out in the lyrics to his songs and his approachability. His humility has directed him to a greater purpose in the music world beyond making records. Drake hopes fans of his and fellow musicians will help the music industry see the intrinsic value of music that sounds different than the commercialized songs lighting up the radio. This desire has played out with artists like Chris Stapleton and Tyler Childers and demonstrated how fans who listen, follow, and share the music they love can change the industry and incentivize the authentic outliers. Drake is hopeful this will continue to occur, and also envisions these fans will help rebuild a community of western culture and dancing.
A man with a solid head on his shoulders, Drake wants his music to be an outlet for people to connect with their beliefs and traditions. His girlfriend, Mary Meyers, is an equally talented musician, and the two have a supportive artistic and personal relationship that keeps them connected to the music and ranch scene. Meyers is currently touring with Diamond Rio, and is a frequent duo partner with Drake, adding sweetness to rough-edged cowboy songs.
Sterling Drake needs to be on your playlist. With a full tour lineup and an EP full of fresh melodies, find one of his shows, put on your dancing boots, and stay to shake his hand and have a drink.
