They provide fans with a beautiful mix of Country, Blues, Gospel, Americana, and as we can see from our chat with husband and wife songwriting and recording partners Michael Trotter Jr. and Tanya Blount -- better known as The War and Treaty -- a whole lot of love mixed in as well.
The duo will be performing the classic U2 track "Pride (In The Name of Love)" along with singer Dierks Bentley during this year's Academy of Country Music Awards show on Sunday, April 18. Just ahead of the big night, Audacy caught up with the duo to gauge their temperatures before taking the stage.
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First wondering whether Michael or Tanya ever use the term "war and treaty" for couples as nicknames depending on different situations, Michael tells Kelly "I think every day she's the treaty." Tanya jokes, "Isn't he great? Eleven years, he is a smart man!"
Michael and Tanya are both excited to take the stage this weekend, as it represents "a reflection of the times we've had in this country," says Michael. "It's such a cool moment to be able to give another historical moment, and that's being able to perform on the ACMs with Dierks. We can't wait to show you all what we've prepared. It's gonna be a powerful moment."
The choice of song they'll be taking on with Dierks is a powerful statement, with lyrics that are as timely now as the were when first penned. "It's as if someone wrote it right now," says Tanya. "That's the beauty of a great song., it's timeless. And Dierks' rendition of it is incredible."
Happy to be a part of how the Country world is openly being more inclusive, and all of their personal musical influences aside, "we were raised on [Country]," Michael tells Kelly. "Of course all of the main stars: Willie Nelson, Randy Travis, Alan Jackson who I am extremely excited for his new album. I have heard a lot of cuts from it already... and it is outstanding. But also, to see Country music represented in all facets of life." Noticing Kelly's photo of Hillary Scott and Lady A in the background, Michael says they "befriended each other throughout the pandemic. Mickey Guyton, Jimmie Allen, Tenille Townes... This is just a super-cool moment and super-cool time to be alive and to be in music period."
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Some of this year's ACM winners have already been announced and there are going to be a TON of performances to catch! Join us for complete coverage of the 2021 ACM Awards -- broadcasting live on Sunday, April 18 at 8PM ET on CBS --and stay tuned for more conversations with your favorite artists right here on Audacy.
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