Cross Canadian Ragweed

Cross Canadian Ragweed was a Red Dirt country-rock band from Oklahoma, known for their energetic live performances and distinctive blend of rock, country, and blues influences. Here are some facts about the band:

1. Formation and Early Years: Cross Canadian Ragweed was formed in 1994 in Stillwater, Oklahoma, by childhood friends Cody Canada (vocals, guitar) and Grady Cross (drums), along with Randy Ragsdale (bass) and Matt Weidemann (guitar). The band initially gained a following in the local Red Dirt music scene, playing at bars, clubs, and festivals across Oklahoma and Texas.

2. Musical Style and Influence: Cross Canadian Ragweed's music was characterized by its raw energy, gritty guitar riffs, and heartfelt lyrics. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of musical genres, including country, rock, blues, and Americana, the band created a sound that appealed to fans of both traditional country music and modern rock. Their music often explored themes of love, heartbreak, life on the road, and the struggles of everyday people.

3. Commercial Success and Album Releases: Cross Canadian Ragweed achieved commercial success with their self-titled album, released in 2002. The album featured hit singles such as "17", "Dimebag", and "Alabama", which received heavy airplay on country radio and helped the band gain national attention. Subsequent albums like "Soul Gravy" (2004), "Garage" (2005), and "Mission California" (2007) further solidified Cross Canadian Ragweed's status as one of the leading bands in the Red Dirt country-rock scene.

4. Live Performances and Fan Base: Cross Canadian Ragweed was renowned for their electrifying live performances, which attracted a dedicated fan base known as "Ragweeders". The band's high-energy concerts and relentless touring schedule helped them build a loyal following across the United States, particularly in the South and Midwest regions. Their live shows often featured extended jam sessions and improvisational moments, showcasing the band members' musical prowess and chemistry onstage.

5. Disbandment and Legacy: In 2010, Cross Canadian Ragweed announced their decision to go on indefinite hiatus, citing creative differences and the desire to pursue individual projects. Despite their breakup, the band's music continues to be celebrated by fans of Red Dirt and country-rock music. Cross Canadian Ragweed's influence can be heard in the music of subsequent generations of Red Dirt artists, who have been inspired by the band's pioneering blend of country and rock elements. Individually, members of Cross Canadian Ragweed have gone on to pursue solo careers and collaborations with other musicians, ensuring that their musical legacy lives on.