(Artist Report)

Written by:  Ginny Gaines  

Sometimes the best bands do not come together overnight. Sometimes they grow slowly, built from old friendships, years of playing music, and a shared dream that refuses to go away. That is the story of Certainly So.

Certainly So is an indie rock band with Southern roots, warm harmonies, and songs that feel relaxed, thoughtful, and honest. Their music mixes pieces of indie rock, folk, Americana, and classic rock influences into something that feels both familiar and fresh. They are just the kind of band that you want to hear on a long drive, sitting on the porch in the evening, or when you just want music that feels real.

Their story began in Alabama with two childhood friends, Tanner Gray and Colby Wilson. Long before Certainly So existed, the two had been making music together for years. As kids growing up, they bonded over songs, guitars, and the idea of creating something meaningful. Like many young musicians, life eventually pulled them in different directions. After high school, Tanner went to Mississippi State University. While there, he met bassist Chase Porter and drummer Zach Corder. The three began playing together and learning what worked musically. They spent time experimenting with original music and building chemistry as musicians.

Meanwhile, Colby stayed around Birmingham and continued making music in his own way. For a while, it probably looked like their musical paths had separated for good. But life has a funny way of bringing people back together. In 2019, Tanner and Colby reunited and started casually writing songs again. What began as simple acoustic demos soon started feeling like something bigger. Tanner brought Chase and Zach into the mix, and suddenly there was real momentum. Before long, Certainly So officially became a band.

Even though they were a new group, they already had years of friendship behind them. That mattered. It gave the band a natural chemistry that many groups spend years trying to build. One thing that stands out immediately about Certainly So is how naturally they sing together. Their harmonies feel effortless, almost like old friends who know each other’s thoughts. Because many of the members had known each other for years, there was already trust and understanding built into the music.

Their influences come from all over the map. You can hear hints of classic harmony bands like The Beatles and The Beach Boys, mixed with laid back grooves inspired by the Grateful Dead. At the same time, there are touches of modern indie rock and folk music woven into their sound. Instead of chasing trends, Certainly So sounds is a band simply making the kind of music they love. Then came an important turning point.

The group connected with producer Toby Hulbert, who had experience working around legendary recording spaces and musicians. This connection helped the band record music in Muscle Shoals, Alabama, a place famous for its deep music history. Muscle Shoals has long been known for creating timeless records, and Certainly So found themselves recording in a place filled with that spirit.

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Written By: Ginny Gaines

(Report)

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