Sleep Nation

Though they never let their heroes from decades past drift too far out of the rearview, one thing’s for certain: the boys of Sleep Nation have their sights set on the future of rock ‘n’ roll. The project was conceived by lead vocalist Bran Merritt in 2010. Drummer Joey Lauretta responded to Merritt’s Facebook ad, the two clicked instantly, and the rest is history! The name “Sleep Nation” was a product of both Anne Le Dressay’s “Sleep is a Country” and Merritt and Lauretta’s habit of sleeping into the afternoon after staying up late writing songs.

Hailing from Music City, this alternative rock outfit has gone on to open for national touring acts such as Adema and Sponge. Because they always give their all for their live shows, they’ve come to be known as the “Out of Control Rock ‘N’ Roll Duo.” Though Merritt and Lauretta are the sole members of the group, Sleep Nation’s sound and presence rivals that of a full orchestra.

In 2014, the duo’s music video and single release for "I Want You Back" landed the band a spot on Nashville radio station 102.9 The Buzz's "Local Buzz Top 25." Sunset Island Music ranked Sleep Nation #2 among the Top 25 Unsigned Bands around the world. In 2015, the pair’s second official music video "Mr. Unlucky" was released in promotion of the film “Hair of the Dog,” directed by Michael Butts. They also wrote "I'm a Werewolf, But That's Ok" for the movie’s soundtrack. In 2016, the band celebrated the release of their self-titled debut album. The single "Slip" became the album’s second track to be named 102.9 The Buzz’s "Local Buzz Cut of the Week." 2018 saw the arrival of singles "Scream & Shout" and "American Way" via Victory Music Buzz. Their new single “Headlights” marks their first release since 2019’s “Woman.” Later this year, Sleep Nation will release a track set to be featured in the end credits of the upcoming thriller “Potter’s Ground.”