When Preston Brust and Chris Lucas first met more than twenty years ago at Nashville’s Wildhorse Saloon on 2nd Avenue, there was no long-term strategy or industry blueprint guiding them. What connected the future LOCASH duo was far simpler: a shared love of country music, songwriting and entertaining crowds. Fuelled by ambition and a belief that hard work would eventually pay off, the pair set out to see just how far their music could take them.
That determination finally reached a defining milestone a decade into their career when the fiercely independent duo followed their platinum hit ‘I Love This Life' with their first Number One single, ‘I Know Somebody.' For Lucas, the achievement validated years of relentless touring and sacrifice. After countless nights on the road and time spent away from family chasing opportunities city by city, the chart-topping moment proved their persistence had been worthwhile. Brust echoes the sentiment, describing the success as surreal for artists who had spent much of their career working outside the traditional label system while waiting for the right momentum to align.
Rather than settling into industry expectations, LOCASH doubled down on independence by founding Galaxy Label Group, taking full ownership of their creative direction and business future. Building the label from the ground up allowed the duo to champion a brand of country music rooted in small-town values, working-class pride and uncomplicated fun. Their approach intentionally steers away from glossy trends, instead focusing on relatable storytelling and upbeat rhythms that reflect real life rather than idealised versions of it.
Lucas acknowledges that choosing independence may have been the harder route, but it allowed the duo to maintain authenticity and personal connection with fans. Delivering feel-good music and Saturday-night energy remained central to their mission, regardless of industry pressures or commercial expectations. For Brust, the foundation of LOCASH’s longevity lies in genuine friendship, with both artists united by the same dream long before chart success arrived.
Outside their own recordings, the duo’s songwriting success has extended across country music, penning hits for artists including Keith Urban and Tim McGraw while balancing family life and the demands of running their own label. Along the way, LOCASH have also become known for collaborations and performances that bring together an eclectic mix of personalities, reinforcing their reputation as artists focused on connection and celebration above all else.
For LOCASH, success is ultimately measured by the energy shared with audiences each night. Whether headlining their own shows or supporting major tours, the duo pride themselves on delivering performances that reflect how everyday fans celebrate life. As Lucas puts it, the name LOCASH has never been about wealth or extravagance, but about finding joy in the moments that matter most. Nearly two decades on from their first meeting, Brust and Lucas continue to champion a message that has defined their journey since 2006: turn the music up, live fully and enjoy the ride.
