
Ole 60 is the Latest Sound From Kentucky
By: Brian Zwerner
Aug 27, 2025
Kentucky has long been a breeding ground for raw musical talent, and Ole 60 is the latest band to prove it. With a sound that is both haunting and energetic, they’ve managed to carve out a unique space that blends classic country with grunge-era rock and folk sensibilities. The band’s name itself is a tribute to their roots, honoring U.S. Highway 60, the major road connecting the hometowns of founding members Tristan Roby and Jacob Young.
The band began as a duo, with Jacob Young on lead vocals and guitar and Tristan Roby on rhythm guitar. They found their groove playing at parties and local venues before adding lead guitarist Ryan Laslie. The group truly solidified with the addition of drummer Aden Wood and bassist Colby Clark. This five-piece ensemble is a testament to organic growth, with each member bringing a vital piece to the puzzle.
Their breakthrough came with the 2023 EP 'Three Twenty Four,' and the viral hit "Smoke and a Light," which skyrocketed to the top of streaming charts. What resonates with fans is the band’s authentic storytelling, with lyrics that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable. Ole 60 isn’t just another country band; they are a group of musicians who have put their own spin on the genre, creating a sound that is "not your father's country band," but one that is undeniably here to stay.