Takin’ us to church. It’s hard to point to an era filled with better country bands than right now. From Turnpike Troubadours and Flatland Cavalry killing the traditional scene to 49 Winchester and Treaty Oak Revival delivering some of the best country-rock out there today, there’s been stiff competition for best band in the genre. Out of all the names out there today, there’s been one band that has consistently stood out among the greats simply due to their unique blend of country, rock and even Gospel elements. That name, of course, is none other than The Red Clay Strays. Since their debut in 2022 with Moment of Truth, which contains the smash hit, “Wondering Why,” Red Clay has all but flown up the ranks in the alt. country scene. Between frontman Brandon Coleman’s killer vocals, the flawless blend of country and southern rock influences and the sheer musical talent present from each of the five members, the Alabama band has proven themselves as one of the best in the business over the past three years. After a busy 2024, which featured the release of their stellar sophomore record, Made by These Moments, a CMA nomination for Vocal Group of the Year and an appearance on the ACM Honor Award-winning Twisters soundtrack (“Caddo County”), Red Clay has been relatively quiet this year. Despite extensively touring throughout the year, they had yet to release any new music. That all changed today with the release of Christian rock band, NEEDTOBREATHE’s brand new track, “Momma Loves Me.” View this post on Instagram A post shared by Red Clay Strays (@redclaystrays) As lifelong fans of the band, the collaboration was nothing short of a dream come true for Red Clay. In an Instagram caption announcing the song’s release, they said: “We’ve been NEEDTOBREATHE fans for a very long time, and getting to do a song with them is like getting to do a song with one of your heroes.” What results is nothing short of a perfect pairing between bands. It’s no secret that Red Clay has worn their Gospel/Christian influences on their sleeves throughout their discography, and it’s put on display here. Beyond the incredible harmonies present between both NEEDTOBREATHE’s Bear Rinehart and Red Clay’s Brandon Coleman, the production from legendary producer, Dave Cobb, truly shines through here and allows both bands to showcase their strengths. Praising their authenticity, Rinehart says he knew he had to get Brandon on the track: “I just knew Brandon and the band would relate to this song, because they’ve stayed completely true to what they believe, and that is so refreshing to me. I don’t think I have ever seen somebody have the kind of success they’re having and also be exactly who they are all the time.” Coleman was onboard immediately: “As soon as I heard the chorus, I was like, ‘Yes, we’ve got to do this.’ I told him I would definitely love to sing on this song.” “Momma Loves Me” ultimately centers on the theme of forgiveness and redemption found in both God and a mother’s love. Written independently by Rinehart, the pair grapple with their wrongs throughout their lives, lamenting missed calls from friends and past sins. Realizing that the only way to find forgiveness is through His mercy, they sing: “So wrap me up in sweet forgiveness Take my wrongs and make them white Take my scars and take my troubles Spread my ashes in the wind ‘Causе momma loves me, I’m still born again” Coleman calls it a song of reassurance: “When you listen to the song, you can start reflecting on all the bad things that you’ve done, or get caught up in thoughts of how bad of a person you may have been. But take a step back—remember that Momma loves you, you’re still born again—and everything’s going to be okay.” Overall, “Momma Loves Me” is a beautiful collaboration between the two bands. Taking a unique angle on themes of doubt and forgiveness, it’s nothing short of a must-listen. Listen here: The Red Clay Strays Tour Dates September 7 – Saint Louis Music Park – Maryland Heights, MO September 11 – Capitol Federal Amphitheater – Andover, KS September 12 – Ford Amphitheater – Colorado Springs, CO September 14 – Red Rocks Amphitheatre- Morrison, CO (SOLD OUT) September 15 – Red Rocks Amphitheatre- Morrison, CO (SOLD OUT) September 19 – Cable Dahmer Arena – Independence, MO September 20 – The Astro Amphitheater – La Vista, NE September 25 – The Pavilion at Toyota Music Factory – Irving, TX September 26 – Cooks Garage – Lubbock, TX September 28 – Moody Amphitheater – Austin, TX October 4 – Fox Theatre – Detroit, MIThe post The Red Clay Strays & NEEDTOBREATHE Embrace Forgiveness On Stellar New Song, “Momma Loves Me” first appeared on Whiskey Riff.