The 2025 Railbird Music Festival, held on May 31 and June 1 at Lexington’s historic Red Mile, delivered a weekend rich in Americana, Southern rock, and country grit. While the headliners—Lainey Wilson and Jelly Roll—put on big shows and sets as expected, the undercard acts stole the show, reaffirming Railbird’s role as a haven for roots music lovers.
The Red Clay Strays: Southern Rock’s Next Big Thing
Emerging from Alabama, The Red Clay Strays captivated the Sunday crowd with their electrifying blend of gospel-tinged vocals and swampy rock rhythms. Frontman Brandon Coleman’s soulful delivery on tracks like “Wanna Be Loved” showcased the band’s depth beyond their viral hit “Wondering Why.” Their performance drew one of the largest audiences of the weekend, prompting Coleman to express gratitude: “Y’all make us feel like rockstars up here”
Treaty Oak Revival: Red Dirt Revivalists
Texas-based Treaty Oak Revival brought a raw energy to the festival, blending Red Dirt country with Southern rock flair. Their set, featuring songs from their 2023 album Have a Nice Day, resonated with fans seeking authenticity.
Ryan Bingham & The Texas Gentlemen: A Soulful Collaboration
Ryan Bingham, accompanied by The Texas Gentlemen, delivered a set that melded Americana storytelling with soulful instrumentation. Their collaboration added a rich texture to Bingham’s rugged vocals, creating a memorable experience for attendees. Fans appreciated the depth and authenticity of the performance, highlighting Bingham’s continued relevance in the genre.
Riley Green: Bridging Tradition and Modernity
Riley Green’s performance was a nod to traditional country roots while embracing contemporary themes. His setlist, featuring hits like “I Wish Grandpas Never Died,” struck a chord with both longtime country fans and newer listeners. Green’s ability to balance nostalgia with modern sensibilities made his set a standout of the weekend.
Gavin Adcock: From Gridiron to Guitar
Former Georgia Southern football player Gavin Adcock brought a unique energy to the festival. His transition from athlete to musician was evident in his dynamic stage presence and relatable lyrics. Adcock’s performance resonated with younger attendees, marking him as an artist to watch in the country music landscape. His nod to country legend Hank Williams Jr. with “Weatherman” was a classic!
Festival Atmosphere and Community Response
Despite initial skepticism regarding the headliners, many attendees found the festival’s overall experience rewarding. The festival’s emphasis on emerging talent and authentic performances overshadowed any initial lineup controversies
Conclusion: A Celebration of Authenticity
The 2025 Railbird Music Festival reaffirmed its commitment to showcasing genuine talent in the Americana and country scenes. Everything from the concessions and shade throughout the day, to stage sight lines and acoustics were spot on and we can’t wait for the 2026 announcement.
For fans seeking a blend of tradition and innovation, Railbird 2025 was an undeniable success.
