Ariana Longson
Updated on: October 16, 2024 1:15 am GMT
Did you know that Traverse City, Michigan, is getting a musical shout-out in the latest album from bluegrass superstar Billy Strings? The famed musician has namedropped his former home in two songs on his new album, Highway Prayers, which was released today.
Traverse City on the Map
Born as William Apostol in 1992, Billy Strings is not originally from Traverse City, but he has a strong connection to the vibrant music scene there. He grew up in the Ionia area, moving north after high school in 2011 to Traverse City, where he helped shape the local bluegrass community. His collaboration with local singer and mandolinist Don Julin was particularly significant during his four years in the area.
Locals would often enjoy Strings’ performances at various venues, including:
- Little Bohemia
- Union Street Station
- Left Foot Charley
- Inside Out Gallery
- Horizon Books
Since his move to Nashville in 2016, Strings’ career has skyrocketed. In 2021, he won the Grammy for Best Bluegrass Album with his LP Home. Today, he is an in-demand artist, drawing large crowds at amphitheaters across the country, including upcoming shows at Pine Knob Music Theatre in Clarkston, Michigan.
Highway Prayers: A Musical Journey
Strings’ new album features 20 original songs that explore his experiences on the road. Two tracks, in particular, mention Traverse City.
- In “Leaning on a Travelin’ Song,” he reflects on life as a touring musician, singing about his journeys from Traverse City all the way to Tampa Bay.
- Another track, “Gone a Long Time,” includes a lyric about Traverse City as well. He expresses the transient nature of his lifestyle, emphasizing how he can’t escape his roots.
Together, these songs highlight his memories of the Northern Michigan city.
Here’s a glimpse of his lyrics from “Leaning on a Travelin’ Song”:
“I can’t recall the past ten miles/Standing still feels like I’m flyin’/That old moon is shining bright…”
And from “Gone a Long Time”:
“Just came from Traverse City, now I’m Withlacoochee bound/I’ll be gone a long time.”
Upcoming Concerts in Denver
To celebrate his new album release, Billy Strings has announced three concerts in Denver at the Ball Arena. He will perform from January 24 to January 26, 2025. Other notable destinations on his winter tour include:
- Asheville’s ExploreAsheville.com Arena for six nights
- Atlanta’s State Farm Arena for two nights
- Nashville’s Bridgestone Arena for two nights
Fans eager to catch him live can register for presale ticket access, with general ticket sales starting on October 11 at 10 a.m.
A Rising Star
Billy Strings has gained tremendous popularity, boasting approximately 2.94 million monthly listeners on Spotify. He is also recognized for collaborating with major artists like Willie Nelson, Dierks Bentley, and Zach Bryan. Most recently, he featured on a track with pop sensation Post Malone for his new country album, F-1 Trillion, which hit the Billboard charts.
His musical journey reflects not only his growth as an artist but also his enduring ties to Northern Michigan. Although he moved away, he frequently returns to connect with his roots.
Conclusion
Billy Strings has firmly established himself as a leading figure in the bluegrass genre, using his platform to honor his hometown of Traverse City. His new album, Highway Prayers, not only showcases his musical talents but also pays tribute to the experiences that shaped him. As he takes to the stage in locations like Denver, fans can expect an exciting blend of heartfelt lyrics and energetic performances, ensuring that Traverse City remains a memorable part of his story.
If you want to learn more about Billy Strings and his music, you can check out his latest album. It’s available to buy or listen to on many music platforms.
