At Country Radio Seminar (CRS) in Nashville, I caught up with BoomTown Saints—Chris Ramos and Ben Chism—who are making a name for themselves in country music not just with chart-topping singles, but with an inspiring message about living boldly and chasing what truly matters.
From Corporate Life to Center Stage
Before music took center stage, life looked very different for Chris and Ben. One was in corporate America, the other was in medical school. But as Chris put it, “We decided to scrap it all.” They reached a point where they had to ask themselves: Would they be more fulfilled by closing a big business deal—or by doing something that left a lasting legacy?
The answer led them here. “What makes you feel fulfilled? It’s doing what you are supposed to do,” Chris said. That mindset is something they’re also passing on to their families, teaching their daughters to pursue their dreams—even when the path is uncertain.
A Duo Meant to Be
Before BoomTown Saints came to be, Ben spent six years as a solo artist but felt stuck. A chance performance with Chris sparked something special. They knew immediately that they should keep going—together.
Chris, who had grown up poor and later found financial success in the corporate world, found himself at a crossroads. He prayed about his next step, and the answer was clear: music. “I underestimated just how intense this would be,” he admitted. He had been living the same lifestyle as before, but without the same income, and soon, his savings began to dwindle.
“That was a God thing, though,” Chris reflected. “Because I needed to appreciate it when I start making it.”
The Reality Behind the Radio
While their debut single hit radio immediately—and their second followed suit—the success didn’t translate to instant financial comfort. Chris recalled worrying about how to feed his kids and keep his home, even while their songs were getting airplay.
They were honest about the grind, explaining how even established artists often rely on side hustles to stay afloat. Being at CRS, where only a fraction of aspiring artists get invited, isn’t lost on them. “It’s very humbling and we’re grateful for that,” Ben said.
Dads First, Artists Always
When they’re not on the road, both men focus on being present dads. Chris talked about driving his daughters to school and attending their sporting events. “That’s what fulfills me,” he said.
Ben, who has two daughters—one who’s into makeup and another who loves the outdoors—echoed the sentiment. “We try to be the best dads that we possibly can be and that’s very fulfilling.”
A New EP with a Positive Spin
Their upcoming EP—American Dream—isn’t tied to a specific release date just yet, but fans can expect a wide-ranging sound and a consistent thread of positivity. From country ballads to rock influences to songs with 90s vibes, each track stands on its own.
Even in their heartbreak songs, they try to offer a takeaway. Their current single, “Heart Breaks You,” which hit #1 on independent country radio, is one such example. “It’s telling the story of what you learned so that other people don’t make the same mistakes,” Chris shared.
“We try to keep a positive spin on it,” Ben added. That approach, both musically and personally, is part of what makes BoomTown Saints stand out.Another single, “This Side of Dirt,” is heading to country radio soon—and it’s another reminder to live each day with purpose, gratitude, and heart.
