There are few acts in modern roots music who command attention quite like The War and Treaty. Built on the undeniable chemistry and powerhouse vocals of Michael and Tanya Trotter, the two-time GRAMMY-nominated duo have steadily carved out a space that blends soul, country and Americana into something wholly their own. Now, they step into a bold new chapter: signing with Atlantic Outpost and unveiling their fifth studio album, ‘The Story of Michael and Tanya,' arriving June 19. Pre-order the album here
At its core, this new project feels exactly as its title suggests: deeply personal, reflective and rooted in lived experience. Following the critical acclaim of ‘Plus One,' the duo are turning inward, framing their next body of work as both a continuation and a deeper exploration of their shared journey, artistically and personally. It’s a statement of identity as much as it is an album, positioning Michael and Tanya not just as performers, but as storytellers documenting their own evolving narrative.
Leading the way is the brand new single ‘Don’t Say Goodbye,' a track that immediately leans into the emotional weight and vocal intensity that has become their signature. While details of the full record are still unfolding, the song offers an early glimpse into the tone of the album—rich with feeling, grounded in connection and delivered with the kind of conviction that has made their live performances so compelling. It’s a reminder that, at their best, The War And Treaty don’t just perform songs—they inhabit them.
That sense of scale and ambition extends across the album’s collaborations too. ‘The Story of Michael and Tanya' brings together an eclectic and impressive list of contributors, including Whoopi Goldberg, Valerie June and Wynonna Judd: a trio that hints at the record’s broad emotional and musical palette. Each guest adds a different dimension, reinforcing the duo’s ability to move fluidly between genres while staying anchored in their own voice.
Beyond the studio, The War And Treaty continue to build their reputation as one of the most electrifying live acts in the genre. Known for shows that are as uplifting as they are musically powerful, the duo will celebrate the album’s release with a very special headline performance at Ryman Auditorium on September 13. It’s a fitting venue for a project of this scale—a room steeped in history, where storytelling and soul have always taken centre stage.
Artist Presale: Tuesday, May 12 10AM CT – Thursday, May 14 10PM CT
Spotify Presale: Wednesday, May 13 10AM CT – Thursday, May 14 10PM CT
Venue Presale: Wednesday, May 13 10AM CT – Thursday, May 14 10PM CT
The Ryman show feels less like a routine tour stop and more like a moment—a chance to see this new chapter brought to life in one of country and Americana’s most revered spaces. With tickets expected to move quickly, the performance is shaping up to be one of the standout live events of the autumn calendar.
With a new label home, a deeply personal album and a growing list of high-profile collaborations, ‘The Story of Michael and Tanya' arrives as a defining release for The War And Treaty. It captures where they’ve been, where they are now and—perhaps most excitingly—where they’re heading next.
