Bilmuri probably isn’t synonymous with country music—yet. The crossover artist’s blend of metalcore and country and a whole bunch of other genres is leading to helping him rapidly rise of the music charts.
His hits like “Better Hell” (14 million streams on Spotify) and “Fluorideinthehardseltzerwater” (11 million streams) have showcased his range of a blend of music styles. But the artists admits to having a bit of country in his bloodlines. “I think it’s kind of in my blood a little bit because my dad was in a bluegrass band,” he tells Country Muscle Podcast host Jeff Tomko. “He played five string banjo.”
With a long-standing admiration for country music, Bilmuri found inspiration in the work of artists like Hardy, who have successfully integrated rock elements into their sound. This influence sparked BilMuri’s creative vision of crafting a heavier sound infused with country flavors. “I could probably make it even heavier and just add a touch of country in there,” he explains, describing his desire to mine for that satisfying sound that combines the essence of dethcore/ambient/post-jazz—or what some fans simply refer to as “Y’all-ternative.”
Bilmuri found inspiration in the work of artists like Hardy, who have successfully integrated rock elements into their sound. This influence sparked the artist’s creative vision of crafting a heavier sound infused with country flavors, as y0u can hear on his latest album American Motorsports. “I could probably make it even heavier and just add a touch of country in there,” he explains, describing his desire to mine for that satisfying sound that combines the essence of both genres. In this creative sandbox, he invites fellow artists—many of whom share a metal background—to explore and collaborate, fostering a unique environment where both metal and country can coexist.
Bilmuri has recently collaborated with notable country artists such as Mitchell Tenpenny and Dylan Marlowe, merging their distinct styles with his powerhouse sound. “It’s been amazing to work with artists who also come from a metal background. There’s a shared understanding and respect for heavy music, which allows us to create something innovative together,” he reflects.
In this creative sandbox, he invites fellow artists—many of whom share a metal background—to explore and collaborate, fostering a unique environment where both metal and country can coexist.
It took a while—and several sore throats, till Bilmuri realized he had been using his screaming, metalcore vocals completely wrong. Transitioning from the intense vocal demands of metalcore to the more nuanced approach required in country music prompted him to reevaluate his singing technique. After experiencing voice loss during tours, he sought vocal lessons that helped him discover the importance of proper technique.
“My vocal teacher was like, you’ve been singing completely wrong this whole time,” he recalls. This revelation allowed Bilmuri to embrace a healthier approach to singing, part of the singer’s overall commitment to health and fitness.
“As the band gets bigger, it just forces you to be more responsible,” he says. Because there’s people’s jobs that are relying on you taking care of yourself.
You can watch the Bilmuri Country Muscle Podcast Interview on the Official Country Muscle YouTube channel and on Apple Podcasts as well as Podbean.
6 Takeaways from the Blmuri Country Muscle Podcast Interview
- Creative Across Different Genres: Bilmuri enjoys mixing heavy metal and country influences, creating a unique sound that respects both genres while providing a fresh, satisfying musical experience.
- A New Focus on Physical and Mental Health: Bilmuri took up powerlifting seriously during COVID as a way to channel energy and support his mental health, leading to impressive strength milestones like a 405-pound deadlift.
- It’s About Long-Term Strength and Health: Inspired by lifter and social media sensation Sam Sulek, Bilmuri shifted from strict hypertrophy programs to focusing on pushing maximum effort in exercises he enjoys, aiming for longevity and avoiding burnout.
- A Focus on Fitness for Showtime: Physical conditioning is critical for energetic each show Bilmuri performs. The singer tailors his training and nutrition to ensure he can perform at his peak, emphasizing cardiovascular health and muscle endurance.
- Vocal Technique Evolution: After experiencing voice strain on tour, Bilmuri took vocal lessons that changed his technique, enabling him to sing longer and louder without sacrificing vocal health.
- Lifestyle and Recovery: He prioritizes sleeping well and eating real food for recovery and mental clarity, often avoiding substances like alcohol that negatively affect his voice and overall performance.