Old Dominion has a new honor.
But it’s the same as the old one.
Earlier this week, the 5-man band was named Vocal Group of the Year, at the 53rd annual Country Music Association awards.
Old Dominion won it last year too. Both times the ceremony was held in Nashville, where the band is based.
Nashville — nearly 1,000 miles from Westport — is the adopted hometown of Old Dominion lead guitarist Brad Tursi.
Brad Tursi
He got his start right here. At Staples High School, the 1997 graduate was known primarily as a soccer star. His 1996 team reached the state finals.
He always loved music though, and since college has made his mark on the country scene. Besides his current group, Tursi has written songs for other country artists.
Old Dominion is for real. They were named Sirius XM Breakthrough Artist of the Year in 2015. Through albums, EPs and constant touring, they’ve developed a strong, loyal fan base.
Their third album — titled “Old Dominion” — was released last month. It debuted at #1 on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart.
Their new single — “One Man Band” — is climbing up the Billboard Hot 100. Old Dominion performed that song at the CMA Awards.
Unlike Nashville, Westport may not be a hotbed of country music.
But we sure are proud of one man, in that one band.
(Hat tip: Jeff Lea)