Introduction
Fans of contemporary bluegrass know the Steeldrivers Band Members deliver soulful lyrics, tight harmonies, and instrumental prowess. Since forming in Nashville in 2005, they have become renowned for blending traditional bluegrass with soul and country influences. This article profiles each current and former member, showing how their talent propelled the band to Grammy-winning success and guided their evolving sound.
Current SteelDrivers Band Members
Richard Bailey – Banjo (2007–present)
Bailey joined when the band formed in 2005. A revered Nashville banjoist, he offers both traditional technique and melodic creativity. His driving banjo work became a hallmark of their sound from debut to today.
Matt Dame – Lead Vocals & Guitar (2021–present)
In 2021, Matt Dame stepped in as lead singer and guitarist. His voice reinvigorated the group after Kelvin Damrell’s departure, and he had an immediate impact on their 2025 album, Outrun.
Tammy Rogers – Fiddle & Vocals (2005–present)
A founding member, Rogers brings emotional depth and virtuosity. Her classical training shaped the band’s unique mix of bluegrass soul. She emerged as primary songwriter by 2020, anchoring their evolving sound.
Brent Truitt – Mandolin (2012–present)
Replacing Mike Henderson in 2012, Truitt added depth and stability to the band’s mid-career phase. His mandolin stands out across Hammer Down, The Muscle Shoals Recordings, Bad for You, and beyond.
Mike Fleming – Bass (2005–present)
Another founding member, Fleming anchors the group’s rhythm and harmony. His steady musicianship provided continuity through multiple lead vocalist transitions.
Notable Former SteelDrivers Band Members
Chris Stapleton – Lead Vocals & Guitar (2005–2010)
Stapleton co-founded the group and performed on their first two albums. His soulful voice and songwriting made tracks like “Blue Side of the Mountain” instant bluegrass classics. He left in 2010 to launch a hugely successful solo career.
Gary Nichols – Lead Vocals & Guitar (2010–2017)
Nichols succeeded Stapleton in 2010, contributing lead vocals to Hammer Down and the Grammy-winning The Muscle Shoals Recordings. He left in 2017 following personal commitments.
Kelvin Damrell – Lead Vocals & Guitar (2018–2021)
Damrell fronted the band during Bad for You (2020), bringing fresh energy and a modern Tennessee sound until his departure in July 2021.
Mike Henderson – Mandolin (2005–2011; died 2023)
One of the founding architects, Henderson helped shape the band’s early writing and sound through Reckless (2010). He passed away in 2023, leaving a lasting legacy.
Discography Through the Years
The band’s albums chronicle lineup changes and evolving styles:
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The SteelDrivers (2008) – staples include “Blue Side of the Mountain”
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Reckless (2010) – released before Stapleton’s departure
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Hammer Down (2013) – Nichols leads with Truitt on mandolin
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The Muscle Shoals Recordings (2015) – Grammy winner
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Bad for You (2020) – Damrell era begins
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Outrun (2025) – Dame’s debut with Sun Records
What Makes Each Member Exceptional
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Stapleton, Nichols, Damrell, and Dame each brought a distinct voice, aligning with key creative phases.
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Rogers, Bailey, and Fleming provided musical continuity and resilience.
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Henderson and Truitt anchored the mandolin’s melodic backbone.
Their collaborative chemistry—cited by Vince Gill as “an incredible combination”—propelled the SteelDrivers to bluegrass acclaim.
Awards & Live Impact
The band has earned multiple Grammy nods and won Best Bluegrass Album in 2016 for The Muscle Shoals Recordings. They tour extensively—about 75 shows annually—amassing devoted fans known as “Steelheads”.
Evolution & Future Outlook
The SteelDrivers have evolved through resiliency and adaptation:
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Stapleton’s departure challenged the group—but the fresh lineup rewarded those risks.
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Awards and critical recognition sustained momentum.
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Outrun (2025) celebrates their 20-year mark under Sun Records.
Conclusion
The SteelDrivers band members combine stability and innovation. Founding musicians like Rogers, Bailey, Fleming, and Henderson (RIP) laid the groundwork. Vocalists Stapleton, Nichols, Damrell, and Dame each brought new chapters. That blend of tradition and transformation defines the band’s rich legacy—and promises a future as vibrant as its past.
