Dallas is a city of grand ambitions. You can either keep a low profile or stride confidently toward your dreams, seizing every opportunity along the way. Among those who fully embraced this vibrant scene is the legendary band Old 97’s. By blending country, punk rock, and rock ’n’ roll, they quickly won fans not only in their hometown but around the globe.
In this article, we explore the band’s early style experiments through their rise to international success—one of Dallas’s most iconic acts: Old 97’s. Read more at dallaski.
Formation and Debut Album
In the 1990s, as the American music scene experienced an indie-rock boom, a new band was forming in Dallas: Old 97’s. Their name pays homage to Johnny Cash’s classic song “Wreck of the Old 97,” a true idol for lead singer Rhett Miller. That hit inspired Miller’s first lyrics, which later became the band’s trademark fusion of country storytelling and punk-rock energy.
While many peers chased grunge and alternative rock, Miller and bassist Murry Hammond turned back to America’s musical roots, merging traditional country with punk spirit. Their early shows quickly electrified the local Dallas scene and drew enthusiastic crowds.
In 1994, the band released their debut album, Hitchhike to Rhome. Packed with fresh, original tracks about everyday American life—searching for identity, love, and freedom—the record struck a chord across Texas and became a cult favorite among fans of alternative country.
After the release of Hitchhike to Rhome, Old 97’s embarked on a nationwide tour, winning over new fans with concerts that felt like celebrations of musical liberation. Their explosive energy soon caught the attention of major labels, leading to a deal with Elektra Records and marking a major milestone in their career.
Breakthrough Albums and Film Soundtracks
With their debut behind them, Old 97’s steadily cemented their status among America’s most compelling indie-country acts. In 1995, they released their second album, Wreck Your Life, on independent label Bloodshot Records. Their true breakthrough came in 1999 with Fight Songs. The track “Murder (Or a Heart Attack)” didn’t skyrocket at first, but its enduring appeal earned it the No. 176 spot on Blender magazine’s list of the greatest songs ever in 2005.
In 2013, the band partnered with country legend Waylon Jennings for Old 97’s & Waylon Jennings, bridging two generations of country and folk-rock. Featuring demo recordings and powerful duets, the album showcased dynamic vocals and heartfelt lyrics, earning it the No. 65 spot on Billboard’s list of top U.S. country albums that same year.
Music can deepen our favorite stories, and Old 97’s songs have appeared in numerous films and TV shows, including the romantic dramedy Divorce, American Style, the medical sitcom Scrubs, the neo-noir detective dramedy Veronica Mars, and many others.
From their first Dallas gigs to collaborations with music legends and standout soundtrack placements, Old 97’s have carved out their place in history as one of American folk-rock’s most recognizable and enduring bands.