Who is Ashes & Arrows? How a slice of luck gave talented 'AGT' Season 19 country band a massive boost
ASHEVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA: Ashes & Arrows is a dynamic country/rock band that originated in the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, and the Alps of Arrowtown, New Zealand. Their compelling blend of powerful harmonies, moving lyrics, and an electrifying on-stage presence are sure to make waves during Week 2 of 'America's Got Talent' Season 19.
With their powerful vocals, deep lyrics, and charm on stage, Ashes & Arrows enthrall audiences everywhere, from the mountains of Asheville, North Carolina, to the peaks of Arrowtown, New Zealand. In 2021, Ciaran McMeeken, Benjamin Voigt & Jonathan Calhoun met at an open mic in downtown Asheville while they were all at a crossroads in their musical careers.
In that moment, they found renewed joy and inspiration, reigniting their passion for writing and performing music, this time as a united band.
'AGT' Season 19 band Ashes & Arrows is inspired by NEEDTOBREATHE
Drawing inspiration from The Avett Brothers, Judah & The Lion, and NEEDTOBREATHE, Ashes & Arrows creates authentic and distinctive songs. Ciaran, Benjamin, and Jonathan, who were brought together by a love of music, and rediscovering the excitement of performance, came together to find their collective voice.
'AGT' Season 19 band Ashes & Arrows is a social media phenomenon
Since releasing their first EP, 'Forward', in the fall of 2022, they have quickly gained popularity among listeners all across the world. Their entertaining videos on Facebook and TikTok have received millions of views, and the EP has received thousands of streams.
This group's early success is evidence of their captivating musicianship and ability to engage a wide range of listeners. They hope to positively influence the world of music with their unique style, sense of humor, and genuine expression.
They are currently working on an album, which will be produced by the esteemed Jamie Tate in Nashville, Tennessee. Offering a melodic fusion of inspirations, Ashes & Arrows is sure to have an impact far beyond its lofty beginnings.
Who is Jonathan Calhoun from 'AGT's Ashes & Arrows?
Jonathan, a singer, guitarist, and composer, wrote the songs for his debut album 'These Empty Arms' over a 20-year span of time. He draws inspiration from artists like Bruce Springsteen, Tom Petty, Bob Dylan, and Prince, and he uses poignant vocals and beautiful guitar lines that come from years of living his music.
Who is Ciaran McMeeken from 'AGT's Ashes & Arrows?
Ciaran is a singer-songwriter from New Zealand who started playing the drums and guitar at the age of 11. The native of Arrowtown initially decided to study in Dunedin rather than pursue a career in music.
Ciaran worked mostly on an Owaka Valley farm in the South Island during 2013. After asking Ciaran what he wanted to do with his life six months into working at the farm, the owner gave him the fatal piece of advice: "Just get on with it, mate."
Ciaran was at a loss for words. From then on, Ciaran committed his time to a career in music, with the help of friends and family.
It was at that very farmhouse, 'The Valley', where he recorded his debut EP in 2014 after receiving that crucial piece of advice. Ciaran then relocated to Auckland, where he still resides and keeps records.
His second EP, 'Screaming Man' released in 2015, was widely praised, and its lead song, 'City', gained national exposure in New Zealand. Ciaran worked with other authors to refine and enhance his songwriting abilities while on a writing trip around Europe organized by Sony and Imagem Publishing.
He also wrote a ton of songs to use in the future. For Ciaran's self-titled debut LP, which was released in late 2017, thirteen tracks were selected and recorded in late 2016.
Who is Benjamin Voigt from 'AGT's Ashes & Arrows?
Benjamin is a backup vocalist for Ashes & Arrows. He is also listed as the pianist for the band.
In 2023, he got married to Leila Voigt.
'America's Got Talent' Season 19 will air new episodes on Tuesdays on NBC, at 8/7c.