Lakeview: Pittsburgh’s Rising Stars in Country Music
The city of Nashville has always been the home of dreams, especially for those who have a passion for country music. Among the newcomers stirring the waters of this vibrant scene are Jesse Denaro and Luke Healy, two talented individuals who are making waves with their unique musical style. These two artists, fondly known as Lakeview, have carved out a niche for themselves, transitioning from their suburban roots in Pittsburgh to becoming a favorite on Music Row.
The Journey from Day Jobs to Country Fame
If they weren’t busy making music, Jesse and Luke would likely be soaking in the sounds of SiriusXM’s The Highway as they dig in-ground pools at luxurious Nashville estates. The pair’s rise to prominence is not the typical Nashville fairy tale. Instead of playing at well-known venues like the Bluebird Cafe, they started off performing in all sorts of unconventional places: from Chinese restaurants to church basements and VFW halls. Here, they found their initial supporters — a diverse crowd of folks such as construction workers, emergency room nurses, and waitstaff, all coming together for a night of genuine fun.
Confidence Built on Authenticity
In a recent chat, Jesse expressed how important these intimate venues are to their performance style: “So many shows filled with so many industry executives who have seen and analyzed everything make Nashville shows difficult,” he remarked. “Making the Exit/In feel like the Reverb Lounge in Omaha, Nebraska — that was the goal.” This could be seen as a reflection of their journey, transitioning from playing to three people at a chicken shack in Little Rock, Arkansas, to headlining a packed Exit/In. That’s quite the leap!
Relatable Songs that Resonate
Lakeview’s self-titled debut album, which dropped in September, features 18 tracks packed with relatable themes. One standout is “Dying Breed,” which packs a punch with its heavy-rocking vibe and thought-provoking lyrics. Lines like, “You say out with the old and in with the new… guess I’m old-school, a stubborn old fool just stuck in a rut,” capture the essence of their message. The duo dives into the everyday lives of their listeners, stating, “We’ve shared the same lives as the fanbase we represent.” Jesse adds, “Those experiences end up in our songs because we know all about it.”
Connecting With Their Audience
Their single “Home Team” emphasizes the working-class experience, celebrating everyday heroes, from the hardworking guy saving for an engagement ring to the single mom hustling to put food on the table. Jesse believes that their authenticity shines through their lyrics, saying, “People can sniff out inauthenticity. If you fake it, no one’s buying it.” That honesty is palpable, and it’s what connects them to their growing fan base.
On the Road Ahead
This rising duo’s journey in the music industry is a testament to their hard work and determination. They have a packed schedule for the future and are looking forward to hitting the stage at numerous country festivals and possibly even the famed Grand Ole Opry. They’re already garnering attention for their performance on last year’s C2C festival in Europe, and they’re set to headline their own U.K. tour, with a sold-out show in London.
A Bright Future
As 2024 approaches, Jesse and Luke are also preparing for a tour with Breaking Benjamin, alongside bands like Staind and Daughtry. Their story is only just beginning, and it’s clear that their rise in the country music landscape shows no signs of slowing down. “Playing the music live and meeting every fan is how we will maintain our slow-burn to stardom,” Jesse said, reflecting their drive and commitment to staying grounded amidst growing fame.
For fans of country music who appreciate raw, genuine storytelling, Lakeview’s journey from Pittsburgh to Nashville is one to watch. With their honest lyrics and relatable themes, Jesse Denaro and Luke Healy are proving that hard work and authenticity truly pay off.
