When people think of Key West music, names like Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney or the Beach Boys undoubtedly come to mind, along with others in the “trop rock” or some other “yacht rock” genre.
But one band in Key West is hoping to add its name to that list: Homegrown.
An original country group based in Key West, Homegrown was founded by Michael Hall, known for his signature wad of dip, and Tommy Bray. The two have known each other for over a decade, and with a shared passion for music, they knew they had something special.
Originally a duo, Hall and Bray recently expanded the band to include two other local musicians, Preston Higgs and Luke Berces. Their collective love for country music and Key West binds the group together.
“Key West is such a huge part of our band. The community is a family down here and it’s what brought us together.” said Hall.
In March, Homegrown won the “Country Act of the Year” award at the Key West Music Awards. It was their second nomination and first win.
“We came in thinking we weren’t going to win at all and prepared ourselves for the loss,” said Bray. “When they called our name, we couldn’t even talk to each other because we couldn’t believe it.”
Local votes determine the nominations for the awards, also known as the Iggys, and once nominated, judges from the Key West Music Awards attend the nominees’ shows to make their final decision. Homegrown felt honored to be mentioned alongside their local music heroes like Cliff Cody and other Key West musicians.
According to Hall, Homegrown’s music stems from a place of healing rather than a grab for fame. One of his biggest inspirations for music and songwriting was the tragic passing of his brother, who played a significant role in his love for music. Originally not a fan of the country genre, Hall was introduced to country by his youth pastor’s kids at Glad Tidings Church in Key West.
Key West is central to Homegrown’s identity and sound. The connection is clear in their music, particularly in their latest single, “Dirt Road Revival,” whose music video was shot right on Government Road off Flagler Avenue. The video captures scenery that only a second-generation Conch might notice, but it’s a tribute to a place the band proudly calls home.
You can listen to Homegrown on popular streaming platforms such as Spotify and YouTube. For locals or visitors trying to find some live music, they frequently perform at Kiki’s Sandbar on Little Torch Key and RockHouse Live on Duval Street, where they play original songs and country classics.The band promises a lot more in store for Key West locals, including new music releases and more performances in town.
Follow them on instagram @homegrownmusicofficial and Facebook @Homegrownmusic.
