The War and Treaty is set to captivate audiences at the upcoming 75th Primetime Emmy Awards on January 15, 2024. This dynamic soul duo, comprised of married couple Tanya & Michael Trotter Jr., will deliver a moving performance alongside the talented Charlie Puth during the “In Memoriam” segment of the prestigious event. Their journey to this significant moment has been marked by incredible achievements and heartfelt music that resonates deeply with fans.
As they embark on this new chapter in 2024, it's essential to reflect on their remarkable past year in 2023. The duo released their fourth full-length album, Lover’s Game, in March, which showcased their unique sound and emotional depth. Additionally, they made a notable appearance on breakout country superstar Zach Bryan’s self-titled album, contributing to the track “Hey Driver.” Their hard work and passion earned them two Grammy nominations for Best New Artist and Best American Roots Song for their heartfelt track “Blank Page.”
Following a stunning performance at the CMAs in November, anticipation for The War and Treaty’s Emmy performance is at an all-time high. Fans are eager to learn more about this powerhouse couple and the love story that fuels their music. Let’s dive into the details of their personal and professional journey, exploring the love that blossomed between them and the music that continues to inspire many.
The War and Treaty: A Love Story
The love story between Tanya and Michael Trotter Jr. is as inspiring as their music. Tanya recalls, “His personality drew me in initially and then the sparks started to fly. I knew that I was hooked.” Their relationship began when Tanya was known as a singer under her maiden name, Tanya Blount. The couple fell in love and tied the knot in 2014, creating a beautiful partnership both personally and professionally.
Interestingly, the couple has differing memories of when they first realized their connection. Tanya recalls meeting Michael at a festival in Maryland where they were giving away backpacks to children. Michael, however, believes he had feelings for Tanya long before their official meeting. He remembers seeing her on the big screen in the ’90s film Sister Act 2: Back in the Habit and confidently telling his parents that she was destined to be his wife.
Musical Partnership Blossoms
As their relationship developed, so did their musical partnership. Michael shared in an interview, “We started working and hanging out a little bit professionally. Before I knew it, my eyesight started changing towards her. She’s such a beautiful person, a beautiful woman and I was like, ‘wow God, could you really bless me with something like this?” This beautiful blend of romance and creativity has resulted in a unique sound that captivates audiences everywhere.
Family Life with Four Kids
The War and Treaty is not only dedicated to their music but also to their family. They are proud parents to four children, including a 9 and 11-year-old daughter, a teenage son, and a 19-month-old son they welcomed during their marriage. Tanya explained in 2013, “We are parents of a 9 and 11 year old girl and we have a son we had together in our marriage who is nineteen months, and then we also have a teenage boy.” Balancing their careers and family life showcases their commitment to both their art and their loved ones.
Making History at the CMAs
The War and Treaty made history at the 56th Annual CMA Awards, becoming the first black husband and wife duo to perform on the CMAs stage. Their powerful rendition of The Rolling Stones’ classic “It’s Only Rock ‘N’ Roll (But I Like It)” alongside Brothers Osborne left a lasting impression. Michael reflected on this milestone, stating, “If we’re going to work hard, this is the reason why we’re going to do it.” Their performance not only showcased their talent but also their groundbreaking presence in the country music scene.
Supporting Each Other Through Challenges
Michael's journey has not been without its challenges. He faced post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after serving in Iraq as a soldier in the U.S. Army’s 6th Infantry Regiment. Despite these struggles, Tanya has been a pillar of support for him. Michael shares, “There are days when Tanya and I just look each other in the eyes and say, ‘Are you OK today?” Their deep understanding of each other’s needs is a testament to their strong bond and commitment to one another.
Conclusion
The War and Treaty is a shining example of love, resilience, and musical talent. As they prepare for their performance at the Emmy Awards, their story serves as an inspiration for many. The duo’s journey is a reminder that with love and support, anything is possible. They continue to break barriers in the music industry while nurturing their family and advocating for each other through life's challenges. We eagerly anticipate their upcoming performance and look forward to what the future holds for this remarkable couple.
