Everybody Loves an Outlaw is a Texas-based duo with Bonnie and Taylor Sims. They have captivated audiences worldwide with their unique blend of bluegrass and alt-country music. Their journey began in the Lone Star State, where a young Bonnie, at the tender age of seven, faced rejection at an audition for the popular Barney TV show. Deemed too “unique,” this early setback did not deter her. Instead, it marked the beginning of a musical journey that would see her voice celebrated far beyond her wildest dreams.
The duo’s story is one of perseverance and evolution. After meeting in college, Bonnie and Taylor relocated to the Front Range of Colorado. There, they immersed themselves in the local bluegrass scene, becoming well-known figures in the community. Their band, Bonnie & the Clydes, became a staple in the Colorado music scene, renowned for their energetic performances and distinct sound that fused old-time alt-country with a contemporary twang.
Over the years, Bonnie and Taylor released a series of well-received songs, cultivating a dedicated fan base. However, it was the summer of 2020 that marked a turning point in their careers. Under the moniker Everybody Loves an Outlaw, the duo embarked on a new project aimed at licensing and music placement for films and commercials, partnering with Extreme Music. This venture led to the creation of “I See Red,” a song that would soon take the world by storm.
“I See Red” was featured in the Polish soft-core film “365 Days,” available on Netflix, catapulting the song into the global spotlight. The track’s intense emotional resonance struck a chord with listeners, leading it to top the global Spotify charts for 11 consecutive days and earn impressive positions on various Billboard and Rolling Stone charts. With over 40 million streams, the success of “I See Red” was beyond anything Bonnie and Taylor had anticipated. This unexpected triumph attracted the attention of major record labels, culminating in the duo signing with Columbia Records.
Despite their mainstream success, Bonnie and Taylor remain deeply rooted in their bluegrass origins. “It’s an elemental thing,” Bonnie explains, emphasizing that elements of bluegrass will always be integral to their sound. Their music, often described as bluegrass, transcends traditional genre boundaries, blending various styles to create a unique and compelling sound. Taylor echoes this sentiment, highlighting the community aspect of bluegrass as a vital connection that enriches their lives and music.
Artists like Molly Tuttle, Billy Strings, and Sierra Hull are revolutionizing bluegrass, and Bonnie and Taylor are proud to be part of this movement. They view their work as an expansion of the bluegrass genre, bringing fresh perspectives and new audiences to the music they love. For Bonnie and Taylor, bluegrass is not just a genre but a language and a community that fosters deep, enduring connections.
As Everybody Loves an Outlaw, Bonnie, and Taylor Sims continue to push the boundaries of bluegrass, infusing their music with passion and innovation. Their journey from Texas to the global stage is a testament to their talent, resilience, and the timeless appeal of a truly unique voice.
