Christopher Anthony Lunsford, better known by his stage (and grandfather’s) name Oliver Anthony, is an American singer, songwriter, and guitarist based out of Farmville, Virginia. He began writing and recording music (primarily a fusion of country and folk) in 2021, gaining attention because of his emotional messages and distinct, gravelly voice.
Anthony became an internet sensation in August 2023 with his politically-charged breakout single “Rich Men North of Richmond." His success reportedly followed a spiritual encounter he had a month before, prompting him to get sober. Just after, Anthony was approached by West Virginia music channel Radiowv. Despite becoming a topic of intense political commentary, the song is widely seen as a working-class anthem, propelling Anthony from anonymity to household-name status.
Upon his rise to fame, Anthony has been championed by members of the modern conservative movement. However, he drew further attention after he criticized the playing of his song at the Republican presidential debate, distancing himself from the notion of right-wing stardom.