Get ready to witness Nashville’s hidden musical treasures take the spotlight on November 15th! But here’s where it gets exciting: the Red Bull Jukebox House Band, a trio of Nashville’s most talented musicians, is set to redefine what it means to steal the show. Music Director and drummer Miles McPherson, background vocalist Kristen Rogers, and multi-instrumentalist Kelby Ray are gearing up to deliver an unforgettable night alongside an impressive lineup of artists at the Red Bull Jukebox event in Music City (https://www.redbull.com/us-en/events/red-bull-jukebox-nashville).
This year, the trio will join forces with headliner Treaty Oak Revival (https://www.redbull.com/us-en/treaty-oak-revival-to-headline-red-bull-jukebox-nashville-2025) and welcome the songwriting competition winner to the stage, all while navigating the unpredictable twists of live performance. With Ward Guenther of Whiskey Jam fame (https://www.redbull.com/us-en/theredbulletin/whiskey-jam-nashville-country-music) returning as host, the night promises spontaneity, from fan-voted song selections to surprise guest appearances.
And this is the part most people miss: collectively, McPherson, Rogers, and Ray have shared stages with the likes of Post Malone, Reba McEntire, and Paramore, often collaborating on tours and recording sessions. They’re not just good—they’re the elite, handpicked from Nashville’s already stellar talent pool.
We sat down with the trio to uncover the unique challenges they face. Their insights, edited for clarity and brevity, reveal the artistry behind their craft.
What’s your connection to Nashville?
Miles McPherson: “I’m a rare breed—a Nashville native. Primarily, I’m a session drummer.”
Kristen Rogers: “I moved here in 2006. I’m starting to feel like one of the locals who’ve been here forever.”
Kelby Ray: “As another Nashville native, I’d say Legends is my go-to spot for a random Saturday night set—it’s hard to beat!”
Nashville house bands are legendary, right?
Miles McPherson: “Absolutely. Broadway is home to some of the most talented musicians you’ll ever hear.”
What makes a house band truly exceptional?
Kristen Rogers: “Flexibility is key. You rarely rehearse with the artist, so you’re relying on recordings and hoping they stick to the script live. Mistakes happen, and you have to be hyper-alert for last-minute changes. As a vocalist, I know no artist sings live exactly like their recordings—it’s about adapting on the fly.”
What are you most excited about for Red Bull Jukebox?
Miles McPherson: “I was thrilled to reconnect with Derek Wells, last year’s director. He’s a great friend and an incredible player—having him back is a highlight.”
Kelby Ray: “I’m looking forward to making music with amazing people and meeting new friends. Plus, I’m excited to play at Pinnacle for the first time!”
Kristen Rogers: “There’s a surprise in store that I’m really excited about. It’s going to be special, and I’m honored to be part of it.”
How do you prepare for such a dynamic show?
Miles McPherson: “As Music Director, I’ve put in countless hours of prep—rehearsing the setlist, anticipating crowd choices, and planning for every scenario. On the night, I’ll be managing the stage while the stage manager cues me for artist transitions. It’s a lot, but we’re ready for the challenge.”
What’s your goal when backing an artist on stage?
Kristen Rogers: “My goal is to blend seamlessly into the performance. While there are moments to shine, for this event, I aim to support the artist’s voice without overshadowing it. The voice is a powerful instrument, and using it to enhance the art is both respectful and brave.”
Didn’t two of you recently tour with Post Malone?
Miles McPherson: “Yes, Kristen’s been on the tour, and I joined for one show as a substitute drummer while she was abroad. We were literally on opposite sides of the world!”
What other projects are you working on?
Kelby Ray: “I’m juggling sessions, local shows, and promoting *The Road! Catch me and the guys on CBS and Paramount+ on Sunday nights!”*
Kristen Rogers: “The beauty of my job is its unpredictability. I’m always excited to see what’s next and to keep enjoying the journey.”
Controversial Question: Is the role of a house band undervalued in the music industry? Do they deserve more recognition for their adaptability and skill? Let us know your thoughts in the comments!
This story is part of a larger narrative celebrating Nashville’s musical heartbeat. Stay tuned for more!
