So how did it all start?
"We were originally called ‘Drummer TBD,’” Cooper laughs. “Seth, Jackson, and I were playing together, but we didn’t have a drummer.” That changed when they invited Josh—whom they knew from LHHS band and Espree—to join them. “After that first session, we knew this was it,” says Cooper. “The rest is history.”

And the name ‘Grits’?
Like many great band names, this one was unintentional. “Cooper slammed his amp into the wall on the way up to rehearsal and I said, ‘You’re grits, buddy,’” Josh explains. The inside joke turned nickname eventually became the band’s name. “We still don’t really know what it means,” adds Seth. “But it fits.”

How would you describe your sound?
“We play mostly rock—both originals and covers—with influences ranging from classic rock to indie,” says Jackson. “We love the feel of '70s rock: gritty, live, analog—but we also pull inspiration from newer artists like Pinegrove.” Whether it’s Zeppelin, The Strokes, or obscure ‘60s tracks, the band thrives on the energy of guitar-driven music.

And your first time performing together?
“Our debut was at the 2023 Varsity Revue at LHHS,” says Josh. “We played a Beatles medley and had the best time. It was the perfect way to kick things off.” Shoutout goes to Mr. Singleton, who helped them find their footing.

Is it true your musical tastes are all over the place?
“Very,” Josh laughs. “Jackson could be listening to metal, Seth’s got Studio Ghibli soundtracks on, and Cooper’s deep-diving into underground '60s music. But when we’re together, it just clicks.”

What’s it like performing in your hometown?
“Playing for the Lake Highlands crowd is awesome,” says Seth. “It means a lot when our old teachers or neighbors show up. But we’re also excited to start playing more in Waco and Austin this year.”

Favorite venue so far?
The group agrees on one memory: debuting their original song Yeehaw at Shady’s. “It was such a great night,” says Cooper. “The crowd reaction blew us away. We all love that song and that venue—it was the perfect combo.”

How has the community supported you?
“In every way,” says Josh. “From the LHHS Band, Highlandettes, and Espree to our friends, families, and neighbors showing up to cheer us on. Lake Highlands gave us the foundation to even imagine recording and releasing our own music.”

Are you working on anything new?
Yes! Grits set up a home studio this past summer and is excited to release our first album Leatherbound. “If all goes well, we’ll have new music out this fall,” says Seth.

How do you divide roles within the group?
“Josh is definitely our manager,” says Jackson. “He handles booking, emails, and logistics. Seth leads the songwriting, but we all collaborate and write our own parts. It’s a true team effort.”

What does each member bring to the table?
“Josh brings the business sense and the groove. Seth’s creativity and vocals are key. Cooper has the best stage presence and keeps things light. And Jackson? He’s got this aura and learns faster than anyone,” the guys agree.

What’s next for Grits?
The band hopes to play at Vector Brewing in Lake Highlands, and eventually bigger Dallas venues like Poor David’s Pub and The Rustic. Long-term? “We’re committed to sticking together,” says Cooper. “Even during college, breaks are for playing music. It’s become one of the best parts of coming home.”

Final thoughts?
“Our families have been amazing,” says Jackson. “They’ve offered us garage space, gear, endless support—and tolerated a lot of noise. We wouldn’t be doing this without them or this community.”

From garage rehearsals to neighborhood shows, Grits is proof that some of the best music comes from your own backyard—and Lake Highlands is proud to call them one of its own.