by Kate Sanchez

Roosevelt County’s Will Banister has once again made the area proud, receiving top honors under the bright lights of the CMA of Texas stage.  Banister was awarded CMA of Texas Artist of the Year at a ceremony held March 31, 2021 at Cook’s Garage in Lubbock.

“I was very honored and surprised when I first found out I would be receiving the award,” he shares, “I had no idea I was even on their radar.”  Although he’s made a name for himself on several big stages now, Banister says that the greatest factor in his success is simple: playing traditional country music.  “I’ve always just done what I do…play country music that is more on the traditional side.  Even now as I’m out doing an original show of brand-new material, it’s still very country, and I just think there is still a market for it,” he says, “I think people still crave that sound.”  Performing with passion, along with a knack at tapping into the emotions of a large rural community, Banister’s music carries the familiar sounds of those legendary influences he grew up listening to, like Charley Pride, Hank Williams, Merle Haggard, and Marty Robbins.

Not only did Banister receive the prestigious award on the CMA of Texas stage, but the night was made even more unforgettable when he and his band performed a few songs after receiving the award.  “Having the crowd respond the way they did was very memorable,” he recalls.

Born and raised in Portales, Banister says it’s hard to remember a time when music wasn’t a part of his life.  Being from a small town without many music venues has made the career path a little more complicated, he says, but his hard work and talents have allowed for great success and unique experiences along the way. And although small town roots hold their fair share of challenges in making a music career, the musician wouldn’t have it any other way.  “I was born and raised here in Portales, NM and I love it here.  I think it’s a great town to raise kids, and I can’t imagine living anywhere else.  It’s home”.

Banister is happy that his 2021 is shaping up to look more “like old times” and he’s quickly getting his calendar filled back up.  “…I have a job in October in Arizona that I’m really looking forward to…and I’m starting to work on a new album sometime this year, but we will see how that goes, “he adds.

All of Banister’s music is available through multiple streaming services and can be ordered for purchase in hard copy, directly from his website at www.willbanister.com.  Be sure to keep up with him on Facebook and Instagram as well, for release dates and information on where he will be performing next.