Minneapolis-based singer-songwriter Joe Hysell is quickly emerging as one of the Midwest’s most compelling voices in alt-country and Americana. Rooted in Southside Minneapolis, his music blends outlaw grit, heartland rock drive, and deeply personal storytelling.

The band’s first official single, “Push On Thru the Pain,” was recorded with Kevin Bowe in South Minneapolis and captures the urgency and spirit of the Twin Cities right now. Channeling the raw edge of Johnny Cash and Waylon Jennings with the melodic punch of Tom Petty and Dave Matthews, the track is both timeless and immediate.

Hysell rewrote the lyrics with recent local events — and the names of Alex Pretti and Renee Good — in mind. The song was tracked in just two days because it felt too important to sit on. It was recorded January 31, what would have been his brother Brian’s 47th birthday (F*ck cancer), adding a deeply personal layer to a song about resilience, grief, and defiant hope.

Hysell first gained broader regional attention with his 2025 EP Still Gonna Try, which debuted on 89.3 The Current. The single “Burn It Down” earned spins from Bill DeVille and support from the station’s team, signaling growing momentum beyond Minnesota.

Backed by The Ramblin’ Mercenaries — Dan Neale (co-lead guitar), Metal Joe Anderson (co-lead guitar), Jeremy Johnson (bass), and Jake Anderson (drums) — Hysell delivers high-energy live shows that move seamlessly between tender lyricism and full-throttle Americana rock.

A full-length project, Born Again, is slated for release later this year.

This is music for anyone carrying something heavy and still choosing to move forward.

Let’s go, Sota!!