lukas nelson and promise of the real

Biography

Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real is an American band formed in 2008 by Lukas Nelson, the son of country legend Willie Nelson, after meeting drummer Anthony LoGerfo at a Neil Young concert. Raised in Luck, Texas and Maui, Lukas grew up immersed in music, performing alongside his father from a young age and absorbing influences from classic country, rock, and Americana traditions[1][7]. The band's name is a nod to Neil Young's song 'Walk On,' reflecting their commitment to authenticity and musical integrity[1][3][7].

Promise of the Real quickly established themselves as a dynamic force in Americana and alt-country, blending country, rock, soul, and folk into a distinctive sound. Their breakout came after serving as Neil Young's backing band on tour and in the studio for albums such as 'The Monsanto Years' (2015) and 'The Visitor' (2017), as well as the live album 'Earth' (2016)[3][7]. The group also gained wider recognition for their role in the 2018 film 'A Star Is Born,' where they performed as Bradley Cooper's character's band and contributed to the Grammy-winning soundtrack alongside Lady Gaga[1][2][3].

Over 15 years, Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real released multiple acclaimed albums, including their self-titled 2017 release which debuted at #2 on the Billboard Country Albums chart[3]. The band announced an indefinite hiatus in June 2024, but their legacy endures through their genre-blending music, collaborations with iconic artists, and influence on contemporary Americana[1][3].

Fun Facts

• Lukas Nelson had a vision of performing for millions as a child, but was initially terrified of the idea[5].
• The band's name, Promise of the Real, is taken from a lyric in Neil Young's song 'Walk On'[1][3][7].
• Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real appeared as Bradley Cooper's backing band in the film 'A Star Is Born'[1][2][3].
• Lukas is an avid reader of Rumi, Hafiz, Hermann Hesse, and Tom Robbins, reflecting his philosophical approach to music[7].

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Willie Nelson - Lukas's father and lifelong musical mentor, instilling country roots and songwriting craft. (Touring and performing together; various live shows) [1990s–present]
• Neil Young - Major stylistic influence; inspired band formation and collaborated extensively. (The Monsanto Years (2015), The Visitor (2017), Earth (2016)) [2014–2019]
• Kris Kristofferson - Encouraged Lukas to pursue songwriting as a career. (Personal encouragement (no direct album collaboration)) [Early 2000s]

Key Collaborators

• Anthony LoGerfo - Co-founder and drummer of Promise of the Real. (All Promise of the Real albums) [2008–2024]
• Corey McCormick - Bassist for Promise of the Real. (All Promise of the Real albums) [2012–2024]
• Tato Melgar - Percussionist for Promise of the Real. (All Promise of the Real albums) [2008–2024]
• Micah Nelson - Lukas's brother, honorary member and guitarist. (Promise of the Real live shows, studio sessions) [2010s–2024]
• Neil Young - Promise of the Real served as Young's backing band. (The Monsanto Years (2015), The Visitor (2017), Earth (2016)) [2014–2019]
• Lady Gaga - Co-wrote and performed songs for 'A Star Is Born' soundtrack. (A Star Is Born (2018)) [2018]
• Bradley Cooper - Collaborated on 'A Star Is Born' film and soundtrack. (A Star Is Born (2018)) [2018]
• John Fogerty - Promise of the Real backed Fogerty on tour. (Canadian tour) [2012]
• Bob Weir - Performed together live. (Live performances) [2010s]

Artists Influenced

• Micah Nelson (Particle Kid) - Younger brother; inspired by Lukas's songwriting and band leadership. (Particle Kid albums, live collaborations) [2010s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Find Yourself (Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real)
2. Find Yourself (Sampler)
3. Pali Gap / Hey Baby (New Rising Sun) (Promise of the Real)
4. Just Outside Of Austin (Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real)
5. Forget About Georgia (Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real)
6. Little Girl (Sampler)
7. Carolina (Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real)
8. Fool Me Once (Lukas Nelson & Promise Of The Real)
9. Simple Life (Turn Off The News (Build A Garden))
10. Toppers (Promise of the Real)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia