Wyatt Ellis continues to reinvigorate the traditional bluegrass cannon with his powerful rendition of “Country Boy Rock ’N Roll,” a song originally brought to life by Don Reno, Red Smiley, and The Tennessee Cutups in 1956. First discovering the track as a country song through one of his musical heroes, Marty Stuart, Ellis soon uncovered the song’s bluegrass roots. With lyrics that echo his own rural upbringing and go on to mirror his musical journey, the track highlights the enduring appeal of bluegrass and its ability to connect across generations. With his signature mandolin playing and lead vocals, Ellis is joined by two of today’s most accomplished bluegrass musicians. Trey Hensley contributes tenor vocals and powerful guitar work, while Michael Cleveland delivers an electrifying fiddle performance alongside Noah Goebel's twin fiddle harmony.
The rhythm section is driven by Gibson Davis on banjo and Sarah Griffin on upright bass, two members of Ellis' touring band. Together, they breathe new life into this bluegrass classic while staying true to its spirit. This version of “Country Boy Rock ’N Roll” proves that bluegrass can evolve without losing sight of where it came from. At just 16, Wyatt Ellis is one of the most exciting young voices in the genre. Building on the momentum of his debut album Happy Valley, he steps further into his role as a bandleader and vocalist. Inspired by the bluegrass legends who came before him, Ellis' deep respect for tradition combined with a bold sense of creativity sets him apart as a torchbearer for the next era of bluegrass.
Directed by Joseph Cash, the video was shot at various locations in Paris, KY including Stone Farm, a prestigious location known for breeding champion horses.
ABOUT WYATT ELLIS
Born in the rich musical bed of East Tennessee, Wyatt Ellis has quickly become one of the most-watched young musicians in bluegrass. A skilled vocalist, gifted multi-instrumentalist, and natural bandleader, Wyatt is redefining what it means to carry tradition forward with heart and authenticity. Raised near the Great Smoky Mountains, his first memory of hearing the mandolin—Bobby Osborne’s solo on the bluegrass classic “Rocky Top”—sparked a deep love for the instrument. That early inspiration came full circle when Wyatt was mentored by the legendary musician himself, and later featured on Bobby’s final recording of the Tennessee anthem that first drew his heart to music. During the pandemic, Wyatt poured himself into learning. He studied with master musicians, composed original tunes, and developed a voice and sound all his own. From pickin’ alone in his living room to fronting a dynamic band on stages across the country, Wyatt’s path has been unparalleled. His debut album, Happy Valley, a reflection of his East Tennessee roots and musical virtuosity, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Bluegrass Albums chart—marking the arrival of a bold new voice grounded in tradition.
