Western AF
Western AF is an American YouTube channel based in Laramie, Wyoming, specializing in field recordings and live acoustic performances of singer-songwriters, primarily in the Americana, country, and folk genres.
Alta Journal described the channel as helping drive a resurgence in Americana music.
History
Mike Vanata and Brian Harrington met while studying at Northwest College and continued collaborating after college, eventually creating Western AF.
The channel's name originated from a debate: Vanata proposed "Western As [...]," but Harrington objected to profanity in the official name. They compromised on Western AF, with the full phrase sometimes used informally (e.g., the Instagram handle @westernasfuck).
Content and style
The channel features a mix of emerging and established artists from the Americana, outlaw country, folk, and roots music scenes. Performers have included Colter Wall, Charley Crockett, Sierra Ferrell, and many others.
Impact and reception
Western AF has gained recognition for boosting the visibility of independent and underground artists and contributing to a broader resurgence in "Western" and Americana music. Profiles in Alta Online and Cowboy State Daily highlight its role as a Wyoming-based platform purportedly prioritizing authenticity over mainstream production values.
See also
- Americana (music)
- Outlaw country
- Field recording
External links
- Western AF on YouTube
- Western AF on Instagram