The National Finals Rodeo (NFR) in Las Vegas is widely regarded as the “Super Bowl of rodeos,” but this week, the headlines are dominated by a musical performance that transported attendees back to the golden era of country outlaw music. The Red Clay Strays, currently one of the hottest acts in the genre, ignited The Theater at Virgin Hotels Las Vegas with a surprise cover of Johnny Cash’s “Folsom Prison Blues,” featuring viral sensation Gabriella Rose.
The performance took place during the band’s sold-out run, which coincided with the massive influx of country music fans into the city for the NFR festivities. While the band is currently touring in support of their sophomore album, Made by These Moments, and their breakout hit “Wondering Why,” they chose to deviate from their standard setlist to pay homage to the Man in Black.
The cover began with frontman Brandon Coleman taking the lead. Coleman, whose imposing stage presence and deep, resonant baritone have frequently drawn comparisons to Elvis Presley and Johnny Cash, tackled the first verse with a raw intensity that immediately captivated the crowd. Observers noted that during the instrumental bridge, Coleman stepped back to focus on his rhythm guitar work, adopting a loose, “bpping” physical style reminiscent of Presley, further fueling the nostalgic atmosphere of the night.
However, the performance elevated from a standard tribute to a standout moment when Coleman invited Gabriella Rose to the microphone. Rose, a rising star who recently dominated social media platforms with her single “Doublewide,” took over for the second verse. Her delivery was described by critics as “enchantingly sinuous,” providing a unique vocal counterpoint to Coleman’s booming delivery. The chemistry between the two artists turned the 1955 classic into a fresh, high-energy anthem that reportedly left the audience “speechless.”
@theredclaystrays Glad we got to sing one with ya @Gabriella Rose
The choice to perform “Folsom Prison Blues” is a high-stakes move for any modern country artist, given the song’s legendary status. Yet, the consensus from the Las Vegas crowd and online commentators suggests the Red Clay Strays honored the legacy effectively. Social media reactions following the show were hyperbolic, with many fans stating it felt “like Johnny Cash just walked back on stage.”
This collaboration highlights the current trajectory of both acts. The Red Clay Strays have successfully transitioned from a mobile, Alabama-based club act to a major touring force, celebrated for their genre-blending “old soul” sound. Meanwhile, Gabriella Rose is capitalizing on her recent viral success, having been announced as the supporting act for J.R. Carroll’s upcoming Hometown Hero Tour.
The Las Vegas performance stands as a testament to the enduring power of traditional country music, proving that even in 2025, a faithful rendition of a Johnny Cash standard can still bring a modern arena to its feet.
