Country-pop-R&B newcomer Bak Bond opens up about his dance-crew beginnings, his evolving “Fancy Cowboy” stage persona, his unexpected viral moments, and much more.
What first got you into music?
Believe it or not, everything started with a dance crew. Back then I wanted to make original music for us to perform to. The songs were not great, but they opened the door to the artist I am today.
How would you describe your sound to someone hearing you for the first time?
My sound lives in the Country world with a strong Pop pulse. I spent years making rap and R&B, and those roots still show up, especially when I hit the stage. It gives my live shows a fun mix of modern Country with some soulful edge.
What’s a personal song of yours that holds special meaning?
“Beer + You” means a lot to me. It reminds me to celebrate life even when the stress piles up. The message is simple. Slow down, notice the small things, and let yourself have fun when the moment calls for it.
Slow down, notice the small things, and let yourself have fun when the moment calls for it.
How did you get started in the Savannah music scene?
I found my start in Savannah during the poetry and open mic era of the twenty teen years. Now that my sound has shifted, I am seeing the scene from a new angle. The open mics are still around, but the energy feels different. It feels like Savannah is on the edge of a breakout moment. Artists here are hungry, focused, and preparing for the city to get the recognition it deserves.
What are your favorite Savannah venues to play, and why?
I am still exploring new venues, but a few places have already become favorites. Abe’s on Lincoln has this creative, cozy bar vibe that always feels welcoming. West Broad Bandshell gives me a taste of Bourbon Street and the food is amazing. Savannah Sunset Market at Eastern Wharf is perfect for exposure because the foot traffic is nonstop. Starland Yard and Starland Square both have a quirky artsy feel that matches my personality.
Which Savannah artists and/or musicians would you love to collaborate with?
My collaboration list is long and growing. I would love to work with Jason Bible and his son Jack, Justin Vreeland, Jacob Sandwich, Susanna Dyer Kennedy, Basik Lee and Zonez, Dustin Price, Rick and Ruby, Elli Perry, Andy and Mandy, Marleaux Jones, Brandi Olenyik, Soul Son, and plenty more. Savannah is full of talent.
What are your thoughts on the current state of Savannah’s music scene?
I think the music scene here is healthy. The serious artists are locked in and moving with intention. I would love to see more of the focused rap and R&B community involved in other circuits because there is so much crossover potential.
What inspires your music lately?
Right now my inspiration is coming from the covers I am adding to my set. Zac Brown Band, Brooks and Dunn, and Darius Rucker have been in heavy rotation as I build that familiarity for live audiences.
How do you prepare mentally for a live show?
My show prep routine is still evolving, but vocal health is the foundation. I start days before a show. Honey, tea, warm liquids, apples, watermelon, cucumbers, electrolytes, and fire cider if I need it. Then rehearsals, light singing in the shower or car, and vocal warm ups on the day of. I also believe in dressing the part.
When I look in the mirror and see “Bak Bond,” I step into the performance differently. I have a few signature looks like “Fancy Cowboy” and “Down to Earth Mechanic.” Mentally, I treat every show like it will unlock another opportunity, another fan, or another moment worth capturing.
When I look in the mirror and see ‘Bak Bond,’ I step into the performance differently.
What’s a “guilty pleasure” song or artist you secretly love?
My guilty pleasure artist is Fred Again. I discovered him through a viral track called “ten” and I have been hooked ever since.
What’s a funny or unexpected moment that’s happened to you onstage?
One of my funniest stage moments was when my three year old son ran up mid show and started dancing with me to “Beer + You.” Luckily he has no idea what the song is actually about.
If you could play ANYWHERE in Savannah — even a weird location — where would it be?
If I could play anywhere in Savannah, it would be at a Savannah Bananas game with all the players line dancing in cowboy hats. The fun factor alone would be next level, and the viral potential speaks for itself.
What’s a long-term dream or milestone you’re working toward as an artist?
A long term dream of mine is to take the stage at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville.
What’s next for you—new music, shows, or collaborations?
What’s next for me is building momentum. In recent months, I started performing with a full band, and it’s completely changed the direction of my career. Before that, I was getting turned down by venues because I didn’t have a band. Now, doors are opening fast.
I’m finishing new country-pop music that feels even more honest and lived-in, while continuing to elevate my live show and explore collaborations that feel natural. At the end of March, I’m heading to Nashville to perform and connect with labels and publishers, and fans can support that trip through my GoFundMe: Help Bak Bond take the Band to Nashville.
What message would you give to your fans?
The message I want to give my fans is this. The thing you keep planning to do but keep pushing off might be the exact thing you need to move forward. It might feel uncomfortable or even scary, but that is usually the sign that it is worth doing.
The thing you keep planning to do but keep pushing off might be exactly what you need to move forward.
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