Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys is a band that has hit the ground running when it comes to experiencing success in music. Formed in 2009, the band has been bringing their high energy Americana country rock to sold-out crowds all over Michigan and the Midwest. Staying true to their country roots, on July 23, 2010 they released their first album titled “Homegrown,” which features 12 original tracks that got regional recognition and radio play from some of the largest radio stations in the country.
The group played their first show as an opening act to a sold out crowd for Justin Moore. Since then they’ve won B93’s Honky Tonk Heroes battle of the bands distinguishing them as the top new country band in Michigan. Furthermore, they have opened for some of the biggest acts in country music including Gretchen Wilson, Lady Antebellum, Craig Morgan, Ty Stone and so on. Having played shows ranging from 25 to 60,000 people, there is no stage too big or too small.
With a long-time musical connection, the boys have a chemistry on stage that brings out the best in their music. Imagine a combination of Justin Moore, Bruce Springsteen, Zac Brown Band, Jamey Johnson, and Eric Church with passion and energy not seen in country music and you’ve got Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys. Their live performances get crowds moving like few other bands can, turning first-time viewers into devoted Grizzly-fans. In a short amount of time the group has developed a faithful fan base from all over the country and even different parts of the world. With a limitless attitude, Gunnar & the Grizzly Boys are ready to take the American country circuit by storm and share their take on music.
The BandGunnar Nyblad – Gunnar Nyblad is an experienced and aggressive young singer/songwriter whose talent spans the length of his family’s apple orchards. Inspired by his American roots, Gunnar’s homegrown music encompasses country, rock, and blues. Starting at age 13, Gunnar has written songs about everything possible. Whether you’re loving, leaving, cheating, fishing, singing, drinking, and even chewing, it’s been written by Gunnar. This farm boy’s tough ambition was pruned and harvested with a unique understanding of hard work. That same work ethic shines through his talent and how far he’s come. Opening for artists such as Zac Brown, Jamey Johnson and Justin Moore, Gunnar continues to harness the trades of entertainment. With a strong love for his country and a powerful faith, his high-energy showmanship demands attention and will leave you wanting more. Watch what you say or do around this hillbilly music man, you could inspire his next hit!
[email protected]Joe Rood – Born and raised in Kent City, Joe captures what it takes to be a Grizzly Boy. A hunting and fishing freak who loves to write and perform music, the man is as wild as big foot himself. A little less hairy and a lot more crazy, Joe rocks rhythm guitar while singing harmonies giving the Grizzly Boys perfect body at every show. Joe is well known for co-writing songs such as Do The Dip with Gunnar along with countless originals of his own.
Shane Grehan - All the way from Michigan’s north country, the Alpena native harnesses blues roots taking country to a level that drives John Mayer groupies to drop the city slicker and jump in this country boy’s truck. Since the day Gunnar met this modern day shredder they have been great friends discovering country from two very different backgrounds. A little Shane mixed with songs like Sweet Tea seals him as a Grizzly Boy whos not afraid to push the limits of country guitar.
Robby Mason – Rob’s a trout bum hillbilly music man who grew up discovering music with Gunnar. The two have been in a bands together since the eighth grade. With a distinct ear, Rob keeps The Grizzly Boys on pitch and the ladies on fire with heart melting harmonies featured in songs like Simply Beautiful Girl.
Chris Newberg - Rockford Michigan native Chris Newberg is the Grizzly Boys’ secret weapon playing any instrument we put in front of him. You can normally find him on the keys or slide guitar, however. Having a wide interest in all types of music has helped him bring influences ranging from old-school country to southern rock to the blues. California Chris is king of the Keys with truly original style and beautiful hair.
Joe Connolly – Known as “Cowboy” to the rest of the band Connolly controls live shows with his Detroit Rock City roots. Giving the Grizzly Boys that huge original sound on songs such as Old Microphone and Cowgirls Make Some Noise. The punk based drummer has what it takes to turn any crowd into free-for-all mode!