Tray Wellington returns with the message “Hip Hop is Folk” with Third Album Heart on
the Table
Acclaimed banjo innovator Tray Wellington returns with his highly anticipated third studio
album, Heart on the Table, a bold and deeply personal statement that pushes the boundaries of
roots music. This album is co-produced by Wellington and visionary artist John Mailander
(Bruce Hornsby and the Noisemakers, John Mailander’s Forecast.)
Following his critically acclaimed releases Detour to the Moon (2024) and Black Banjo (2022),
Wellington, the 2024 Steve Martin Banjo Prize winner ventures into uncharted territory,
blending folk and roots storytelling with hip hop and jazz. From Wellington “People often
look at Hip Hop as a genre that’s “bad for people” and encourages “violence.” I’m here to
challenge those beliefs. Folk is a genre built on storytelling, so is Hip Hop.There’s bad messages
in all music but I want to spread awareness that Hip Hop is folk music and spread messages of
hope through my music.”
At its core, Heart on the Table is an unflinching reflection of Wellington’s life journey
confronting themes of addiction, abandonment, race and mental health, while celebrating
resilience, growth, and artistic freedom. The result is his most honest and genre-defying work to
date, offering listeners a raw and inspiring glimpse into the heart of one of today’s most
visionary voices in modern roots music.
Of this album Wellington says “This album was deeply therapeutic for me and helped get a lot of
emotions out and really challenged and pushed me not only as an artist but personally as well.
When you make an honest piece of art I find you often have the feeling of this is something
special and this album from the first tracking day, made me have that immense feeling and I’m
ready to let folks in and hope these songs help someone connect out there and get through those
hard days”
This album also features an all star cast of musicians and collaborators including:
Production: John Mailander (Fiddle, Guitar), & Tray Wellington (Banjo, Vocals, Guitar)
Album Band: Josh Blaylock (Keys), Royal Masat (Bass), Brandon Combs (Drums)
Features: Kaia Kater, Elora Dash, Lizzie No, Demeanor, AG Sully, Sierra Hull.
Recording: Daniel Rice (Engineer)
Heart on the Table will be out Friday, July 10 and will be available on all streaming platforms
and available at Traywellington.com!
This event is 18+, unless accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. A physical, valid government-issued photo ID is required for entry. No refunds will be issued for failure to produce proper identification.
Please contact venue@eastsidebowl.com for any ADA accommodations.
