Eighteen Mile is a bluegrass band whose story is rooted in friendship, family, faith, and a shared passion for music.
The story of Eighteen Mile began when Carson Aaron, Savannah Aaron, and Hallie Ritter met while traveling with their college bluegrass band. They sang in churches and gained years of experience on stages across the country. Those miles on the road helped create what would become the foundation of Eighteen Mile.
As the musicians continued performing together, their musical identity became clear. They developed a sound that honored the traditions of bluegrass while staying true to the harmony-driven arrangements and faith-centered songwriting of gospel and Southern gospel music.
Eighteen Mile Accomplishments
A major turning point came as Eighteen Mile began recording original material with acclaimed bluegrass musician and producer Andy Leftwich. The collaboration helped the musicians further develop their sound and positioned the group for a new chapter in its career.
In 2025, Eighteen Mile signed with Mountain Home Music Company, one of bluegrass music's respected independent record labels. The signing gave the group a national platform and introduced its music to a broader audience.
The band's debut single, "Above the Clouds," was written and sung by Hallie Ritter. The song is a personal expression of faith, centered on the assurance that God's presence and promises remain constant even when circumstances are uncertain.
"Above the Clouds" spent multiple weeks at No. 1 on the Bluegrass Today Gospel Weekly Airplay Chart, establishing Eighteen Mile as a significant voice in bluegrass gospel.
The song's success also brought the band its first major industry recognition. In 2026, "Above the Clouds" earned Eighteen Mile its first GMA Dove Award nomination for Bluegrass Recorded Song of the Year.
Eighteen Mile released its debut album, Peace Be Still, in 2026. The project showcases the band's evolution as musicians, with original material that reflects their individual experiences and faith.
Eighteen Mile has quickly earned a reputation for being one of the best bluegrass bands on the road - not only because of their talent, but because of the enthusiasm and joy they bring to every show. Their peers and audiences know them for their kindness and humility, traits that are evident before, during, and after their shows.
Their love of music and people is at the forefront of what they do. They work hard to develop and maintain sincere relationships with pastors, promoters, and their fans.
While rooted in bluegrass gospel, Eighteen Mile has a secular project in the works and delivers an impressive non-gospel set that includes original bluegrass songs as well as traditional favorites.
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Photo credit: Sandlin Gaither
Photo credit: Sandlin Gaither
Photo credit: Sandlin Gaither