The Red Clay Strays is an American country rock band formed in Mobile, Alabama. They are best known for their 2022 single "Wondering Why", which saw success in late 2023 after going viral on the social media platform TikTok. The song became their first song to chart on the Billboard Hot 100, reaching number 71.

Funded primarily by crowdfunding efforts spurred by manager Cody Payne, the group recorded their debut studio album Moment of Truth in Huntsville, Alabama. The group self-released the album in April 2022, but did not see much commercial success initially. While they initially wanted to remain independent, the group signed with Thirty Tigers in May 2023. This was followed by performances at festivals including Lollapalooza and CMA Fest. In August 2023, they released their first live EP as part of media platform Western AF's YouTube series Live AF.

Throughout 2023, the Red Clay Strays started building traction on social media, culminating in "Wondering Why" going viral on TikTok in September. "Wondering Why" was initially released in March 2022 as a single from Moment of Truth and saw a boost on streaming services in late 2023 due to the Live AF performance of the song going viral. The song became the group's first song to enter a Billboard chart when it debuted on the Hot Rock & Alternative Songs chart at number 33 on the chart dated November 25. In December, it became their first Billboard Hot 100 entry when it debuted at number 93. This coincided with their Way Too Long headlining tour, which concluded in March 2024. Also in March 2024, the group signed a record deal with RCA Records, followed by a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music in April 2024. They also added keyboardist and organist Sevans Henderson around the same time. In August 2024, the group embarked on a five-show tour in Europe. Additionally, the group released their second studio album, Made by These Moments, on July 26, 2024, which was produced by Dave Cobb. The lead single from this album, "Wanna Be Loved", was released on May 22, 2024. They also appear on the Twisters soundtrack with the song "Caddo County".

Musician, Music, Country Music, Music Touring, Country, Country Artist, Country/Country Rock, Bands, Social Media, Soul, Folk Music, Rock Music