Galveston Music Scene

It’s been said that country rock music is what comes out when rock artists play country music. Essentially the fusion of rock and country genres, this sub-genre has its roots in the ‘60s, as icons like Bob Dylan, Neil Young and the Eagles added traditional country themes and instruments to their music. Years later, female artists like Linda Ronstadt and The Chicks (formerly The Dixie Chicks) put their own spin on the sub-genre. 

Fast forward to 2020, and a popular Texas country rock duo frequenting the Galveston music scene known as Amy N’ Me blossoms into a 5-piece band to bring the songs from their “Embers” album to life. The founding members of the band are Amy Collins, lead vocalist and Alby Valadez, lead guitar. New additions include keyboard player Jeff Knight and bass player Ray Lavine, both Islanders By Choice, and Roy Riggs on percussion. 

A classically-trained keyboard player with roots in Arkansas, Knight’s style was heavily influenced by Billy Joel and Elton John. Lavine’s gospel roots were formed in Santa Fe, Tx and he later gained the influences of Pink Floyd, AC/DC and Nikki Sixx of Motley Crue. Riggs, a Houston native, has been banging on drums since the age of 9 and has earned his chops performing in a variety of bands comprising virtually every genre. 

Valadez describes Amy N’ Me and The Banned as a show band, offering a high-energy audiovisual experience to complement their music. The versatile album they call Embers features several local favorites such as “Oh Galveston,” “Embers,’ and “Bluebird,” which is featured on the Texas Country Music Association’s Best Texas Country Picks compilation CD, Volume 3. Several songs from this robust album, mixed and mastered by the respected Brian Reeves in Los Angeles, CA, have enjoyed radio play, and the full album can be found on over 30,000 AMI entertainment jukeboxes across North America. 

Check out their album on all digital media platforms and FOLLOW them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/amynmebandor request to be added to their mailing list at amynme@hotmail.com. Amy N’ Me and The Banned will debut in Galveston on Friday, November 20th at 3 Doors Down Bar at 102 20th St. The fun starts at 7pm with Amy & Alby getting the crowd going. This is an outdoor event to allow for social distancing, and Amy N’ Me and The Banned hope to see you all there!