Saving Country Music referred to Blaine Bailey as, “the Native American representative that Red Dirt country has long needed.” His single “Cigarettes and Roses” was featured in the third season of the star-powered FX television series “Reservation Dogs,” catapulting Bailey into the stratosphere and garnering him national attention. From his latest album, Home, a new sound emerges from the heart of Indian territory and the heart of Blaine Bailey himself.
How did you get started?
My stepdad Daniel Gourd and my uncles, great uncles and grandpa always played music together in Lost City. Everyone was always happy and having a good time. That is what made me fall in love with music. I picked up a guitar when it was about as big as me. I hyper focused on practicing and was determined to learn songs until I did them justice by replicating them to sound as close to the original as possible. As I got older, I started creating my own style with how I write and sing.
Did you always want a career in the music industry?
Yes. I originally thought I was going to be a lead guitar player. Now, I pretty much am living what I was dreaming back then. I appreciate it so much. Getting to hear people singing my songs back to me. Getting to play on stages that the artists I looked up to play on. It’s my dreams coming true.
What are your most recent successes / placements / accomplishments / projects and or career highlights?
I am really proud of my latest album, Home, and then opening for Turnpike Troubadours a couple months ago was a really monumental moment for me. They are one of my biggest influences. Back when I first started learning to play, I would listen to their CD’s over and over in my room. I learned how to play along with all of Ryan Engleman’s solos.
Right now we are in the beginning stages of touring, thanks to WME. My wife and I both work full time for our tribes, and we are juggling that with traveling on the weekends to shows. It’s a busy time, but we are having a great time learning the ropes of the business.
I got my first sync deal because Sterlin Harjo choosing my song, “Cigarettes and Roses,” to be in Season 3 of “Reservation Dogs.” That was a cool moment to hear my song on national tv.
What is your favorite Oklahoma music venue, music store, or recording studio?
Cain’s Ballroom. I’ve gotten to see so many shows there all my life.
How can we follow you? Best place to purchase and listen to your music (if applicable)?
Instagram and Facebook, Youtube, Tiktok. My music is on any and all streaming platform!
Can you share some advice for someone interested in working in the music industry?
It is art, not a competition. The only competition is within yourself.
What are some of the benefits of having a music career in Oklahoma?
A lot of great musicians come out of here.
Each featured individual or business is given the provided questions to answer in their own voice. Other than formatting and grammar, the answers are personal to each featured voice, and are not provided by the Oklahoma Film + Music Office.
