Lukas nelson

Lukas Nelson, born December 25, 1988, is an American singer-songwriter, guitarist, and actor, best known as the frontman of Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real (POTR), a country-rock band he formed in 2008. The son of country music legend Willie Nelson and Annie D’Angelo, Lukas grew up between Texas and Maui, Hawaii, immersed in music from a young age. He began playing guitar at 11, writing songs early, and joined his father on stage as a teenager. His music blends rock, country, folk, and Americana, with a raw, emotive vocal style often compared to his father’s. Nelson formed POTR after meeting drummer Anthony LoGerfo at a Neil Young concert, later adding Corey McCormick (bass), Tato Melgar (percussion), and Logan Metz (keyboards/multi-instruments). The band, sometimes joined by Lukas’ brother Micah Nelson, gained prominence as Neil Young’s backing band starting in 2015, recording albums like The Monsanto Years. POTR released eight studio albums, including the 2017 self-titled album featuring Lady Gaga on two tracks, which hit No. 1 on the Americana Radio Chart. Their 2023 album Sticks and Stones spent 18 weeks in the top 10 of the Americana Albums chart. Lukas co-produced and co-wrote songs for the 2018 A Star Is Born soundtrack, earning a Grammy for Best Compilation Soundtrack and a BAFTA for Best Original Music. He and POTR also appeared in the film as Bradley Cooper’s backing band. His debut solo album, American Romance (2025), showcases a broader sound, produced by Shooter Jennings. Known for dynamic live performances, Nelson has played major festivals like Farm Aid and collaborated with artists like Lainey Wilson and Sierra Ferrell. He’s praised for carving his own path while honoring his father’s legacy, blending introspection with high-energy shows.