“Clicked the video by accident… stayed for the music that gave me chills.” 🎶🔥 That’s the reaction thousands are having after Red Clay Strays delivered an unforgettable performance of “Demons in Your Choir” at the 2026 ACM Awards. Backed by a powerful full gospel choir, the Alabama band transformed the stage into something emotional, raw, and almost spiritual—leaving first-time listeners stunned and longtime fans cheering them on their feet. 😭💖 From the haunting vocals to the explosive live energy, this was more than just another awards-show appearance… it was the moment the world finally understood why they earned Group of the Year. 🏆

Academy Of Country Music Awards Take Place Sunday, May 17th

Country music’s most talented artists gathered in Las Vegas, Nevada for this year’s Academy of Country Music Awards (ACM Awards) Sunday evening. Hosted by country music legend Shania Twain, the show took place exclusively on Prime Video and featured an array of nominees.

Prior to the show, the ACM promised the “Emmy-nominated, star-powered experience will feature unprecedented performances, exclusive collaborations, and unexpected moments from the biggest Country Music stars, all while celebrating the genre’s most iconic and emerging talent.”

One of the standout performances of the night came from the Red Clay Strays, a fast-rising Southern rock band known for their bluesy sound and electrifying live shows.

 

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Who Are The Red Clay Strays?

Hailing from Mobile, Alabama, the Red Clay Strays are best known for blending rock, blues, gospel, and Americana influences. Formed in 2016, the group gained national attention after their breakout single “Wondering Why” went viral on social media.

The band is made up of lead singer Brandon Coleman alongside Drew Nix, Andrew Bishop, John Hall, and Zach Rishel.

The group released their debut album Moment of Truth independently in 2022, followed by Made by These Moments, produced by Grammy-winning producer Dave Cobb. The second album became their first Billboard 200 entry and reached the top 10 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart.

 

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Red Clay Strays Perform At The ACM’s

The Red Clay Strays took the ACM stage on Sunday (May 17) to deliver a powerful performance with their soulful hit “Demons in Your Choir.”

The ACM Group of the Year was joined onstage by a full gospel choir. The track blends elements of country storytelling, Southern rock, and gospel, creating a powerful anthem that addresses personal demons and the search for truth.

Surrounded by a background that resembled heaven, Coleman delivered a powerfully smooth performance that brought the ACM crowd to their feet.

Watch a clip of the Red Clay Strays perform “Demons in Your Choir” below.