MEET THE

Band

Four men laughing and socializing in a cozy indoor setting. One holds an electric guitar, and two are leaning on each other, sharing a moment of joy.

Gunnar & The Grizzly Boys deliver high-energy country with a Midwest backbone. Fronted by Gunnar Nyblad, the band calls their sound “country music with a Michigan root”—a gritty, feel-good blend built for loud stages and good times.

They gained national attention with the breakout anthem “Standard American,” which racked up over 35,000 downloads, 850K YouTube views, and 700K Spotify streams, earning airplay on SiriusXM’s The Highway and opening doors to major festivals like Faster Horses, Country Stampede, and the Detroit Hoedown.

Their sophomore album, Good Rhythm, features collaborations with Big Kenny (Big & Rich) and Keesy Timmer (Kelsea Ballerini) and showcases the band’s range—from punchy, roots-driven rock to classic country storytelling.

Known for explosive live shows and a loyal fanbase, GGB has shared stages with Florida Georgia Line, Kid Rock, Brantley Gilbert, and more—cementing their place as a powerhouse Midwest country act.

A man passionately singing into a microphone while playing an acoustic guitar on stage during a live music performance with warm stage lighting.

Gunnar Nyblad

From the village of Kent City, Gunnar is a songwriter whose talent spans the length of his family’s apple orchards. Since age 13, he has been writing songs from the tractor. Growing up on the farm has given Gunnar a unique understanding of hard work. That same hard work shines through his songs and style.

A male guitarist performing on stage, playing a white electric bass guitar and leaning forward while sticking his tongue out. The stage has drums and colorful lights in the background.

Rob Mason

Rob plays the bass guitar, sings, and looks sexy. Since the 8th grade Rob has been slappin’ that bass, and harmonizing Gunnar back on pitch. “He’s my right hand man” says Gunnar. Rob keeps a trained ear on the music while keeping Grizzly Girls on fire with heart melting harmonies.

A man wearing sunglasses and a white shirt playing an electric guitar on stage with an American flag in the background.

Chris Newberg

Rockford, MI native Chris “Critter” Newberg is the Grizzly Boys’ secret weapon playing any instrument put in front of him. You can normally find him on electric/slide guitar or keys. His wide interest in all types of music has brought a wide range from twang-bangin' country to southern rock to blues.

A man standing in a dimly lit wooden room with a high ceiling, illuminated by a bright light source behind him.

JOE CONNOLLY

Known as J-Conn to the band, Connolly controls live shows with his Detroit City roots. He got his first taste of performing Country Music at age 15 with Shania Twain at the Palace of Auburn Hills. Trained by Andrew Weber, (Berklee School of Music) J-Conn gives the Grizzly Boys that huge drum sound to keep the Grizzly Boys together. The punk based drummer has been featured in Modern Drummer Magazine and teaches lessons out of Grand Rapids, MI. J-Con endorses SS Custom Drums.

A musician on stage performs in front of a large audience at an outdoor concert, with many spectators watching attentively.

BOOK GUNNAR & THE GRIZZLY BOYS

Book Gunnar & The Grizzly Boys for your next event.
Fill out the form linked below and we’ll be in touch ASAP.