The Malpass Brothers: Keeping Classic Country Alive
Chris and Taylor Malpass don’t just play country music — they live it. The brothers from North Carolina have dedicated their lives to preserving the heart and soul of traditional country, carrying the torch lit by legends like Merle Haggard, Hank Williams, and Ernest Tubb.
“We’ve tried to change being brothers, but we can’t,” Chris joked. Their sibling bond runs deep, both on and off stage, infusing their music with a harmony and authenticity that fans say is rare in today’s modern country landscape.
For the Malpass Brothers, traditional country music isn’t just a genre; it’s a way of life. Their performances are rich with old-time covers of beloved classics, yet they’ve carved out a name for themselves with original songs that honor the genre’s roots while speaking to modern audiences.
Their latest album, Lonely Street, has already sparked intrigue among fans. It includes a song written for Merle Haggard that was never previously released. “Now we aren’t going to tell you which one,” Taylor said. “You’re going to have to listen to the album yourself and figure it out, but it’s in there.”
The brothers’ humor and charm are part of what makes them stand out. In a playful promotion, they revealed that one copy of their album contains a receipt for a brand-new Cadillac Escalade.
Their dedication to traditional country doesn’t stop with their albums. The Malpass Brothers recently wrapped up their second season on the RFD-TV network, where their Saturday night show spotlights other artists who share their passion for classical country sounds. “We love having a platform where we can shine a light on folks who care as deeply about this music as we do,” Taylor explained.
The brothers are already gearing up for a third season of their RFD-TV show while also working on a gospel album featuring a mix of original songs and traditional hymns.
Their roots in classic country were solidified during an extraordinary chapter of their careers — touring for seven years as the opening act for Merle Haggard. “Just a treasure, a time we will always cherish with Merle and a great time in our life,” Chris reflected. Haggard’s mentorship extended beyond the road; he produced their very first album, Memory That Bad, giving the brothers a foundation from which to build their career.
As they continue to evolve, Chris and Taylor remain grounded in their mission: to honor the legacy of country’s golden era while bringing its timeless stories to new audiences. In an era dominated by pop-infused country, the Malpass Brothers stand as modern-day troubadours — proof that the sound of steel guitars and heartfelt storytelling will never go out of style.
Written By: Riley Kielan
