A 16-year-old musician based in Austin, Noah Faulkner has won hearts with his daily Instagram videos, which feature him covering ‘80s and ‘90s hits on pedal steel. His brother plays bass, and their dog Kara looks on. Texas Monthly recently featured Noah for their “Best Thing In Texas” series, saying, “In an Austin revival of a traditionally Nashville sound, Faulkner brings the sliding notes and deep vibrato of pedal steel to his Gen Z peers.” 

His impressive fan base includes an influential list of supporters and followers including R.E.M., Johnny Marr of the Smiths, Peter Hook of New Order, Frank Black of Pixies, designer Todd Oldham, Jenny Lewis, Big Thief, Jason Lee, Neko Case, and many more. “Pedal Steel Noah and Barefoot Nate are tight!” exclaims Jason Lytle of Grandaddy. “So good! Maybe even dog whisperers!” And the Polyphonic Spree’s Tim DeLaughter says, “This new Pedal Steel Noah EP manages to reimagine classics with just enough nostalgia through the familiar melodies, and chill enough while putting the soul of Texas in the air. I love it!” 

At the age of 9, Noah taught himself the basics of piano and began formal study with Terry Allen’s son, the musician Bukka Allen, at age 10. After Bukka introduced him to the Texas music legend Lloyd Maines, Noah’s interest turned to the pedal steel. Maines helped Noah find his first pedal steel and gave him his first—and only—lesson. From there, Noah taught himself by watching videos of Maines and Buddy Emmons and by listening to other country music legends. On October 15, 2022, he posted his first pedal steel video to Instagram, with the subject #pedalsteelguitar is life. He has posted regularly since then, offering his own interpretations of songs by Devo, George Strait, Thompson Twins, My Bloody Valentine, Peter Gabriel, Willie Nelson, and Fleetwood Mac, among many others. His Instagram fanbase has ballooned to more than 70,000 followers.