Walker Hayes

If you’re a fan of country music, then you should have heard of the Alabama native Walker Hayes. With over 20 years of experience in the music industry and two EPs under his belt, he’s gradually becoming one of the genre’s hottest commodities. Known for his quirky sound and storytelling prowess, Hayes has come a long way from playing in college bars for tips to selling out concert venues across the US. Let's delve deeper into the life and career of this phenomenal artist.

About Walker Hayes

Walker Hayes was born and raised in Mobile, Alabama. Growing up, he had a diverse musical background, listening to everything from Garth Brooks to the Beastie Boys. After college, where he studied music, he headed to Nashville in pursuit of a career in music. It wasn't long before he was able to land a publishing deal for his songwriting, and later, a record deal with a major label.

In 2010 and 2011, Hayes released the singles “Pants” and “Why Wait for Summer” respectively, but neither song made much impact on the country charts. Subsequently, he was dropped from his label's roster in a corporate consolidation move. But Hayes did not let this deter him, and he continued to hone his writing and artistry while working at Costco stocking produce.

It was during his time at Costco that Hayes began to write some of the songs that would later feature on his new EP, 8Tracks (Vol. 1): Good Shit. The stripped-down EP was produced by the red-hot songwriter/producer Shane McAnally and features the single “Shades,” which quickly became a summertime sensation, thanks to its explosion across streaming services and recognition from syndicated morning show host Bobby Bones.

In August 2016, Hayes followed up the success of 8Tracks (Vol. 1) with a second collection of songs, 8Tracks (Vol. 2): Break the Internet. The EP features standout track “Lela’s Stars,” which chronicles Hayes’ struggle to make ends meet, and how his daughter Lela was able to remind him to keep a positive perspective.

Hayes signed a deal with Monument Records in January 2017, an imprint of Sony Music based in Nashville co-headed by McAnally and Jason Owen. He is currently working on his full-length studio album with McAnally, scheduled to be released later this year. “You Broke Up With Me,” the first single from the album, is already available for digital download.

The Music of Walker Hayes

What sets Hayes apart from his peers is his unique approach to country music. Drawing inspiration from a wide range of genres, including rap, R&B, and pop, Hayes creates an eclectic sound that is one-of-a-kind in the country music scene. He’s been compared to artists like Kacey Musgraves and Sam Hunt for his unconventional musical style, but Hayes has a distinctive sound that's unmistakeably his own.

Aside from his sound, Hayes is also known for his incredible storytelling. His songs are often deeply personal and reflect his life experiences, such as his struggle with alcoholism on “Beer in the Fridge.” Hayes' ability to craft stories that resonate with listeners has helped him build a strong and dedicated fanbase.

Hayes’ music can be summed up as a fusion of traditional country with modern pop and rap influences. He’s not afraid to experiment with different styles and sounds, making him an exciting and unpredictable artist to watch. His lyrics often deal with themes of family, loss, perseverance, and love, and his music is guaranteed to make you dance, smile, and feel emotional all at once.

What’s Next for Walker Hayes?

With a new record deal and a full-length album on the way, it’s clear that Hayes’ career is on the rise. He’s been busy touring the country and appearing at music festivals, and his fanbase continues to grow rapidly. The success of his EPs proves that there's a hunger for this kind of music, and that Hayes is the perfect artist to deliver it.

As someone who has been in the music business for over 20 years, Hayes has seen it all. Despite the highs and lows of his career, he remains grounded and grateful, always putting his family first. He’s the kind of artist who is easy to root for, and his unique sound and storytelling ability make him a standout in today’s music industry.

So, be sure to keep an eye out for Walker Hayes in the coming months. With a new album in the works and a growing fanbase, he's a rising star that you won't want to miss.