When I got the chance to get know LANCO when they first came out 2017…it gave me the to get know Willie Tate.
Willie is the brother of Tripp Howell who happens to be the drummer of LANCO. The musical talent runs a little deep in their family. They’re also a close nit family too and some damn good people to call friends. Willie has been through some hard shit in life to say the least.
He and his wife unfortunately lost their 2 year old song to cancer and somehow Willie found the strength to keep his dream of music alive. I would’ve drank myself to death losing kid like that, but God has some other plans for Willie. This music isn’t just for his son who passed away, but it’s for Willie and his wife as well.
This album is gritty, raw and about real life as you can hear it in the song “Ghost Town”. Which is track number three from the album and it’s available now for you to stream (and you should).
Hard days in life…is what makes country music so damn good to me. Even through the hell life makes us deal with on a daily basis…music seems to get us out of it.
Willie posted this on his socials back in September talking about his debut album…
“Sound of a Breaking Heart”, my debut album, will be out on October 24th.
This record was written and recorded over the last 5 years and really came together after Woody was diagnosed with cancer. We spent weeks at a time in the children’s hospital and some days I would put my headphones on and walk around Vanderbilt’s campus dreaming of the day that I could show the world this music. It was my little 35 minute escape from the harsh reality that me and Callie Howell found ourselves in.
When we were at home, Woody liked to drive around and listen to these songs and at 2 years old, he could sing just about every single word. This record will always hold a special place in my heart because of how much my son loved it and the time we spent together listening. And now, in less than a month, I give this record to you in hopes that you will love it as much as he did. As much as I do.
Woody, this one’s for you baby.”
I can not wait for this albums release on October 24, 2025. Love ya, Willie.