Country music fans in the Valley have a familiar face in Buddy Martell, who regularly performs at The Stillery locations in Chandler and North Valley. Last week, Martell captivated a small yet enthusiastic audience during a solo set, responding to requests from devoted fans near the stage.
Originally from South Carolina, Martell began his musical journey at just four years old, singing “Away in a Manger” at his church. His passion for music blossomed further when his father gifted him a guitar at age 11, but it was his experience playing drums in ninth grade that truly ignited his love for music. “That’s when I knew,” Martell shared when reflecting on his musical awakening.
Martell’s musical evolution has been dynamic. After immersing himself in country music during his upbringing, he participated in marching and jazz bands in high school, later forming a rock band after graduation. His move to Nashville marked a pivotal moment; as a member of the band A Thousand Horses, he gained recognition and was nominated for Best New Country Artist in 2015. This experience solidified his commitment to country music. “I decided to stop messing around with other genres and stick with country music,” he explained.
While Martell isn’t focused on becoming a big-name artist, he is dedicated to creating quality music, whether performing solo or with his band. “My focus is just making the best music that I can make,” he stated.
Since relocating to Arizona in 2020, Martell has established a long-term relationship with The Stillery, which operates locations in the north and east Valley, with a third site currently in development on the west side. The restaurant’s owners discovered Martell after attending one of his shows and began booking him for regular performances.
Martell currently has two singles available on Spotify, “Just Dance” and “Rambling Too,” further showcasing his commitment to the country music scene.
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