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The singer-songwriter world is crowded with duos, many of them married or longtime touring partners. Yet Goldpine stands out. Their latest project, Three, released last August, continues the story begun with their first two albums, fittingly named Two and One.
Kassie, who hails from Somerville, Alabama, met Iowa-born Ben at church nearly twenty years ago. Both journeyed to Nashville, chasing dreams and carving their place in the ever-evolving Americana scene. Calling them “road warriors” barely scratches the surface. Their days are spent crisscrossing the country in a converted van, juggling long drives, makeshift meals, and the endless admin of a 200-day roadshow. For Kassie, Planet Fitness parking lots have become a quirky but familiar “home away from home.”
Ben’s musical journey began with singing and playing in church, a path that soon led him into the world of recording studios. He moved to Nashville to chase a career as a recording engineer, but it was meeting Kassie that reignited his passion for guitar. His fascination with sound engineering now allows Goldpine capture the raw magic of their live performances in their recordings.
Goldpine, the married duo of Kassie & Ben Wilson, with Southern Americana podcast host Paul Stanley, at Shacks Art Gallery in Grayton Beach, FL.
He caught Kassie’s eye 18 years ago when he was performing at a church service. “My first thought was that he was cute and I could fix how he dresses,” Kassie said with a grin. A direct message from Kassie through MySpace led to lunch at Panera Bread. “I didn’t even pay for her lunch,” said Ben. “I think I was somewhat oblivious to her intentions.”
Pinning down Goldpine’s sound is no easy feat. Ben calls it “aggressive Americana,” a label that fits their bold energy. Kassie, meanwhile, sees their music as a form of storytelling, inviting listeners to experience each show like turning the pages of a novel.
Faith is a huge part of Kassie and Ben’s lives and shines through in their songs. “The gospel has to appear to everyone, even if they don’t realize they need it,” explains Ben. “I’ve seen more faith influence in music over the past several years in mainstream music than I’ve experienced in my life. It’s an amazing experience.”
Kassie hopes that anyone who listens to their songs feels less alone when facing life’s rough patches. She sees their music as an extension of their own journey, and a reflection of others’ stories too.
This summer and fall, Goldpine will light up stages across the Midwest before returning for a string of Southeast shows. Don’t miss the chance to experience their magic live.