Known for their unique brand of modern outlaw music, Ryan Chrys & the Rough Cuts are an award-winning band that will be bringing their talents to the Lagoon stage this year. With rock ‘n’ roll and country elements, the band has something for just about everyone. Ahead of their June 29th Lagoon performance, we asked the band a few questions to get to know them better.
How do you feel when you are performing on stage for a big crowd?
We absolutely love to play, and it feels great to be a part of a live music celebration outside under the sun, and whether we’re performing or enjoying other bands. Community live music events are the best!
Which artists have had the biggest impact on you as a band?
Johnny Cash was always my favorite voice and songwriter, Willie and Waylon too, but when I was young and learning guitar, Angus Young from AC/DC was always my favorite and my biggest influence on guitar. Later Brad Paisley became one of my favs on guitar…both of them are still my two favs.
What has been your most memorable performance ever? Please elaborate.
We have a lot of great performances and memories, simply because we love what we do. But of course there are some that stand out, one being when we opened for Dwight Yoakam. It was sold out, and the energy was huge. I’ve always loved Dwight and his style influenced me a lot; it was an amazing night! Playing in Sturgis during the motorcycle rally was epic too …one-of-a kind party!! We also love our small shows touring in the U.S. – meeting new people and seeing new states. Traveling is always memorable when you go to new places! For instance, we stopped by Sun Studio and Graceland while on tour in Memphis, …we’ll never forget it!
What does it mean to you to be able to perform for the Northern Colorado community at the Lagoon?
I have so much respect for the Lagoon Summer Concert Series, I have wanted to perform there for a decade! We are SO looking forward to it! It’s the kind of community event where all folks can come and enjoy live music in their own hometown environment. It’s an honor for us to perform, and honestly we just want to do our best to make a fun, worthwhile event for those that attend the series… to keep the tradition going and to make it the best evening we possibly can by sharing our music and our gratitude for being a part of it. Lets have FUN!!!
What advice would you give your past self when you were first starting out?
Invest in yourself, first. Look inward and work hard, you have what you need to go the distance. Look ahead and START TODAY.
What are you looking forward to more now that the Lagoon Summer Concert Series is back at CSU’s Lagoon?
We are looking forward to that joyous feeling that comes with a summer night in the park, when things are all right and folks are living their best life and celebrating with smiles and music.
Check out some of Ryan & the Rough Cuts notable accolades:
“Fan Favorite Americana/Country Song of the Year 2021” – Colorado Playlist
“Female Vocalist of the Year, 2021” – Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame
“Band of the Year, 2019” – Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame
“Entertainer of the Year, 2018” – Colorado Country Music Hall of Fame
Nominated “Outlaw Group, 2018” – Ameripolitan Music Awards
“Songwriter of the Year, 2017” – Rocky Mountain Country Music Awards
“Best Country Band, 2017” – Westword Music Showcase Awards
“Best Band, 2016” – Bandsmash
“Best Country Band, 2015” – Westword Music Showcase Awards
“Best Country Band, 2014” – Rocky Mountain Battle of the Bands
“Best Country Song, 2014” – Colorado Music Association