Country Roots, Tender Truths: Will Carter Band Shows Their Softer Side on New Single “Holdin’ On”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Fresh off a scorching run of performances across the heartland—from the honky-tonks of Oklahoma to the plains of Nebraska—the Will Carter Band is proving they are much more than just a high-octane stage act.
If their previous single “Water Tower” was the “yang”—a blast of rocking red-dirt energy—then “Holdin’ On” is the soulful “yin.” It is a mid-tempo love song that trades muscular chops for melodic grace, showcasing a vulnerability that grounds their signature “Texas energy” in deep, country roots.
A Nashville-Texas Power Collaboration
“Holdin’ On” was co-written with Nashville veteran Trent Willmon, who also stepped behind the board to produce the track. Willmon’s polished touch, combined with the band’s raw Texas grit, creates a sound that feels ready for both the dancehall floor and national airwaves.
The song captures the essence of resilience in love, delivered with the same tight harmonies and engaging spirit that fans have come to expect. While their live shows are famous for an energized presence that has earned them opening slots for legends like Wade Bowen, Cody Canada, and the Eli Young Band, “Holdin’ On” reminds listeners that Will Carter is a vocalist capable of nuanced, tender storytelling.
More Than a Solo Act: The Band’s DNA
While the name on the marquee belongs to Will Carter, the music is a collective force. Released on their own Way Back Records label, the upcoming album features songwriting contributions from every member of the group. This collaborative chemistry is the engine behind their success:
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Blake “Bino” Denbina: Fiddle, percussion, keyboards, and harmony vocals.
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Dillan Dostal: Lead guitar and harmony vocals.
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Carlos Jesus Pineda Avila: Bass.
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Jacob Lee: Drums and harmony vocals.
This unified front is what makes their “Country roots. Texas energy.” slogan more than just a marketing tag—it’s a lived-in reality.
About the Will Carter Band
The Will Carter Band is currently riding a wave of critical and commercial momentum. They are no strangers to the awards circuit or the charts, having built a formidable reputation in the Texas scene:
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Award Winners: Took home the Texas Country Music Award for Single of the Year in 2024 for “Had Me At Goodbye.”
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Consistent Nominees: Boast a 2022 Band of the Year nomination and five Vocalist of the Year nods for Carter.
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Chart Success: Two dozen singles on the Texas music charts, with three successfully crossing over to Nashville’s MusicRow chart.
Their upcoming self-titled album (Release Date: March 27, 2026) features production split between Trent Willmon and Chad Mauldin, promising a diverse sonic journey from rowdy anthems to heartfelt ballads.
The Verdict
“Holdin’ On” is a pivotal moment for the Will Carter Band. It proves they can dial back the volume without losing an ounce of intensity. By leaning into their tender side, they’ve crafted a love song that feels as sturdy and enduring as the Texas landscape itself.