Copper Ridge: Outlaw Country Roots with a Rock ’n’ Roll Kick

Copper Ridge stands tall as one of the Pacific Northwest’s premier outlaw country bands—firmly rooted in tradition but never afraid to crank things up when the crowd’s ready to roll. This talented group of seasoned musicians and powerhouse vocalists brings the raw energy and soul of classic country to every stage they hit.

Their setlist is a rich blend of two-stepping favorites and gritty anthems from country legends like Emmylou Harris, Waylon Jennings, Miranda Lambert, Steve Earle, and the Nitty Gritty Dirt Band. Whether it’s a honky-tonk heartbreak ballad or a foot-stomping barnburner, Copper Ridge delivers with authenticity and style.

And when the timing’s right, they know how to slip in a few classic rock ’n’ roll hits—think Tom Petty, Lynyrd Skynyrd, and a little Rolling Stones—to keep the dance floor hopping and the good times rolling.

With a soon-to-be-released album of original tracks, Copper Ridge continues to honor the heart of country music while giving it just the right edge.

At the core of Copper Ridge's mission lies the sacred quest to uphold the true essence of "Country Music" amid the current radio airwaves' often conflicting interpretations. Their unwavering commitment to authenticity radiates from bars to casinos, from weddings to festivals, where audiences cannot help but tap their toes and flood the dance floor whenever Copper Ridge takes the stage. With an eternal optimism and a contagious, danceable rhythm, they proudly adopt the label "outlaw country," embracing a tantalizing blend of old country, new country, and rock 'n roll-infused country that ignites their electrifying setlists.

Copper Ridge is more than just a band; they are a tight-knit "family" whose passion for their craft radiates through every note they play, connecting with every audience and forging lasting friendships at every show.

Meet the Remarkable Ensemble:

Charmin Gibson - The Lead Singer, Acoustic Guitar Maestro, Fiddle Player, and Songwriting Luminary. Charmin's upbringing in a country and bluegrass musical family spans three decades of musical mastery. Her familial roots and unbridled love for music culminated in a solo and duo act, ultimately giving birth to Copper Ridge.

Harley Wainscott - The Young Maverick, Lead Singer, Lead & Acoustic Guitar Virtuoso. Harley may be the youngest in the band, but his live performances are nothing short of a revelation. With a naturally-infused outlaw country sound and a unique flair for acoustic guitar, Harley's journey began when he first picked up a guitar at the age of 13, marking the inception of his extraordinary musical career.

Daisy Brandhorst - The Harmonious Songstress and Mandolin Maven. Daisy, sister to Charmin, embarked on her musical voyage alongside her sibling, singing and playing country and bluegrass gospel since the tender ages of 12 and 14. A central figure in the acoustic group Crossing Blue, Daisy's ethereal harmonies and mandolin prowess add depth and dimension to Copper Ridge's sonic tapestry.

David Smith - The Percussion Dynamo Behind the Drums. David has played in bands in the Pacific Northwest since the age of 14, where he recalls being too young to play in 21+ venues and having to exit the back door when the band took breaks! His roots are primarily in blues and rock, so transitioning to Copper Ridge's style of outlaw country made David a perfect fit. David's beats provide the heartbeat of Copper Ridge's captivating performances.

Lee Wanner - Lead guitarist Lee has been playing guitar for almost 28 years. He attended the Musician's Insitute in Hollywood and learned from musical greats including Paul Gilbert, Scott Henderson, Aex Machacek, Johnny Hilland and others. His studio recording experiences have included recording albums with Marco Minnemann, Morgan Agren, Ric Fierabracci and Pat Healy, among others. 

Grady McKenzie - Bass guitar. Grady has been playing bass both locally and nationally with big name touring bands for over 35 years. Grady plays with Copper Ridge at Western Oregon shows, and also fills in with a few other bands, including Rock, Blues, and a touring Elvis band.

Fredrik Anderson - Bass guitar. Hailing from Eastern Oregon, Rik has been playing all shows on the eastern side of Oregon/Idaho for 6 years now. Known for his kitschy homemade guitar and amp cases, Rik has over 40 years' experience playing with travelling bands. 

Prepare to be spellbound by the unrivaled artistry, electrifying charisma, and undying commitment to the heart and soul of outlaw country that Copper Ridge brings to every stage they grace. Their music isn't just a performance; it's an unforgettable journey through the essence of country music, an experience that will resonate in your heart and soul long after the final note has faded into the night.