Texas Tech University has announced the release of a new documentary, “Flatland Forever: A Texas Tech Story,” highlighting the journey of Flatland Cavalry, a band formed by former students. The film, produced by the university, chronicles the group’s beginnings in Lubbock and key moments from their recent career.
Flatland Cavalry was formed in 2014 by Cleto Cordero, Reid Dillon, Adam Gallegos, Jason Albers, Jonathan Saenz, and Wesley Hall. Although most members pursued degrees in fields unrelated to music—including accounting, chemical engineering, general studies, and occupational therapy—they have since built a successful career in country music.
The documentary includes footage from 2024 featuring the band’s performance at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium where they learned that one of their songs had achieved gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America. It also covers their debut at Red Rocks Amphitheater in Colorado and their return to Lubbock.
“Flatland Cavalry have long been unofficial ambassadors for Lubbock and Texas Tech,” said Thomas Boyd, assistant director of audio engineering for Texas Tech’s Marketing & Communications team and director of the film. “When we approached them about this idea to produce a documentary about them, their roots here in Lubbock and at Texas Tech, it was met with a resounding ‘Yes, we’ve been waiting for this call for a long time.’”
Cleto Cordero commented on his experience at Texas Tech: “I love the idea of this place where all these different souls from all different backgrounds are just coming together and mingling, and you’re going to meet someone you probably never would’ve had a chance to. I love that it brings all these different people together.”
The documentary will premiere on October 9 at noon on Texas Tech University’s official YouTube channel. Viewers can follow the account for updates about the premiere and other content.
Since its formation, Flatland Cavalry has gained recognition from fans and critics alike. Rolling Stone described them as “at the Fore of the Red Dirt Renaissance…one of the most dynamic presences in country music.” The Wall Street Journal noted that they are “a straightforward, upbeat electrified country-rock band,” while American Songwriter called them “a dynamic representation of country music…Kris Kristofferson and John Prine’s enduring influence of folk storytelling traces through.”
The band has contributed songs to major film soundtracks such as “Twisters” and “The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes,” received nominations for Group of the Year at the Academy of Country Music Awards in both 2024 and 2025, and had their music featured on television series including Paramount’s “Yellowstone” and Netflix’s “The Ranch.” They have accumulated over 500 million streams across platforms, earned seven No. 1 singles on Texas Country Radio, toured extensively with artists like Willie Nelson and Luke Combs, and recently sold out Dickies Arena in Fort Worth on New Year’s Eve.
Members are based in both Texas and Nashville: Cleto Cordero (vocals), Jason Albers (drums), Jonathan Saenz (bass), Reid Dillon (electric guitar), Wesley Hall (fiddle), and Adam Gallegos (various instruments).
