News Summary
The Bootstrap Boys are kicking off their ‘Heavy Hearts Honky-Tonk’ tour in Grand Rapids. This tour is especially significant as it is their first without guitarist Nick Alexander, who passed away earlier this year. Frontman Jake Stilson emphasizes the band’s commitment to honoring Alexander’s legacy. The group is collaborating with multiple musicians for their performances and recording a new album. Their upcoming shows promise to be both a tribute and a celebration of music.
Grand Rapids, Michigan – The Bootstrap Boys are set to embark on their “Heavy Hearts Honky-Tonk” tour, officially launching at SpeakEZ Lounge in Michigan on September 17. This tour marks a poignant new chapter for the band as it’s their first without guitarist Nick Alexander, who tragically passed away in January due to heart complications.
The emotional weight of losing such a crucial member is felt deeply by the band, particularly by frontman Jake “Big Jake Bootstrap” Stilson, who emphasized their commitment to honoring Alexander’s legacy throughout this new season of performances.
In light of Alexander’s passing, the Bootstrap Boys have adapted by collaborating with seven different musicians this year, working to fill the gap left by their bandmate. This collaborative effort not only aims to preserve their unique sound but also highlights their resilience and dedication to their music.
Recording Project in Progress
As part of their ongoing artistry, the Bootstrap Boys are also focused on a major recording project at Cold War Studios, where they have enlisted the expertise of engineer Rick Johnson. This project features contributions from various friends and fellow musicians who provide additional instruments, further enriching the band’s sound. The band has acknowledged that they are investing extra time to ensure that the final product meets high-quality standards.
Among their latest musical endeavors, the Bootstrap Boys have recorded a cover of Norman Greenbaum’s classic “Spirit in the Sky.” Plans are in place to complete an album by April, with a targeted release date set for December.
Upcoming Performances
The Bootstrap Boys have an exciting lineup of performances scheduled in the coming months. Notable upcoming shows include:
- September 26 at the ArtPrize Halftime Show at Grand Rapids Sixth Street Park
- September 27 at the Wealthy Street Block Party
- November 1 for the “Day of the Dead Benefit for Nicky” at Founders Brewing in Grand Rapids
- December 21 for their annual “Winter Solstice Party” at Tip Top Deluxe Bar & Grill
Acknowledgments and Acclaims
Beyond their musical projects, the Bootstrap Boys have gained recognition within the music community, winning the WYCE Jammie Award for “Artist of the Year” for the past two consecutive years. They have also been named the No. 1 Michigan Artist of 2024 on WYCE, attributed to having the highest airplay over the previous year.
Stilson noted that their dedicated fanbase has played a vital role in the band’s navigation through grief and transition, providing unwavering support during this challenging time. The upcoming tour and the new recordings stand as both a tribute to their late bandmate and a testament to their dedication to music.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Local Spins Concert Series Returns to SpeakEZ Lounge
Grand Rapids Music Scene Thrives with Stellar Performances
Additional Resources
- Local Spins: The Bootstrap Boys Honor Their Late Guitarist
- Holland Sentinel: The Bootstrap Boys Release New Country Album
- The Bluegrass Situation: Listen to The Bootstrap Boys’ New Single
- Google Search: Bootstrap Boys
- Revue Magazine: Bootstrap Boys Riding Into a New Day
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
