INTERVIEW: The Bootstrap Boys Process Grief and Fight Fascists

The Bootstrap Boys haven't slowed down once since they came on the scene. As the band prepped for a new album of hard-hitting country music, they unexpectedly lost their founding guitarist Nick Alexander. The band's lead singer Big Jake stopped by to tell us more about what's next for the band: a new album, Some Boots, out this spring, touring beyond their home state of Michigan, and processing their devastating loss.

Could you tell us more about the context of the song?

Here is an opportunity for growth slapping me in the face after a blow-up/meltdown combo platter. Sometimes I process emotions on a more raw level. Sometimes I need to step back and let a scenario or situation settle in before I react/over react. This song is about my recognition of that playing out within myself.

You recently lost one of your founding members, Nick.If you feel up to talking about it, how did you come together as a band following your loss?

We leaned on each other and recalled the good times as often as we could. We continue to lean on each other as grief is a process, and we still try to dwell on the good times we did have with him. It’ll never be the same but that is also the new normal.

You've always been very outspoken about your political views. How has your outspokenness impacted you as a band – especially now?

A few people have been bothered by our outspoken opposition to freedom-squashing fascists and their general BS but many more have gotten on board than jumped ship. In the face of absolute tyranny, not standing up is the offense. Ignoring the current state of affairs comes from a place of privilege, and that has never been an option for us.

How do you feel your queer identity/identities influences your performance?

I dress better and smell better (my cologne collection travels with me in part). I believe the camera is always on and do my best to hold myself to a particular standard. That is a thing you don’t see so much of in straight bro country.

Don’t get me wrong – I love a sleeveless shirt and ball cap, after the show when I’m winding down. On stage, I’m trying to put on a show. I don’t wanna go see a performer lookin like they just stepped out of the trailer. I don’t wanna present that way either. If it’s worth going on stage, it’s worth dressing up for imho

What is coming up for you in 2026?

More and bigger and better shows in more and farther away cities and towns. We will also be hitting many of our favorite spots around our home state. We are releasing one album early in the year and another this fall/early winter (if the good lord’s willin’ and the creeks don’t rise). One thing losing a band member taught us is that we are not promised tomorrow. Henceforth I will be churning out what I can when I can asap.

The Bootstrap Boy's upcoming album, Some Boots, will be out on March 20th

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