Billy Gilman Waylon

Billy Gilman’s ‘Waylon’: A Resonant Anthem of Hope and Unconditional Love

By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine

In the landscape of modern Bluegrass, where storytelling is paramount, Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Billy Gilman has once again delivered a track that cuts straight to the heart. His latest single, “Waylon,” isn’t just another addition to his forthcoming album Roller Coaster; it’s a poignant narrative released with a profound purpose, perfectly timed to coincide with May’s Mental Health Awareness Month. This heartfelt offering marks the launch of a significant collaboration with the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP), a national organization dedicated to saving lives and bringing hope to those impacted by suicide.

“Waylon” itself is a masterclass in emotional vulnerability and the quiet power of connection. The song spins the gripping tale of an individual who has seemingly lost everything, yet finds a singular, life-sustaining anchor in the unwavering love of their dog, named Waylon. It’s a powerful testament to the healing capacity of unconditional love, highlighting how even in the darkest moments, a bond with a beloved companion can provide the purpose needed to hold on. Written by Gilman, Dan Murph, and Philip Douglas, the lyrics are crafted with a raw honesty that resonates deeply, brought to life by Gilman’s signature, crystal-clear vocals. The track is further elevated by a stellar ensemble of Bluegrass musicians, including John Mailander on fiddle, Jarrod Walker on mandolin, Jake Stargel on guitar, Vickie Vaughn on bass, Gabe Hirshfeld on banjo, and Martha Christian providing harmony vocals, creating a rich, authentic soundscape that perfectly complements the song’s emotional depth.

Gilman shared his perspective on the inspiration behind the song: “There are so many people out there who may not be with us today had they not had a four-legged companion to help keep them company and give them purpose.” He admits the song wasn’t initially conceived with the AFSP partnership in mind, noting, “We did not write this song with the intention of teaming up with the AFSP, as we were just writing from the heart. But listening to it again a few months after recording it, my producer called me and said he thought this song might be able to help people who are lonely or depressed in a really big way. So I am all in on that!” This organic evolution from heartfelt creation to meaningful advocacy speaks volumes about the genuine spirit driving this project.

The collaboration with AFSP is a crucial component of “Waylon”‘s release. As part of this initiative, Gilman is leveraging his platform during Mental Health Awareness Month to raise awareness and support on social media. AFSP’s theme for the month, “In This Together: Building Emotional Resilience in Ourselves and Our Communities,” perfectly aligns with the song’s message. One of the key actions AFSP emphasizes for nurturing personal resilience is increasing connections with others, and while human connection is undeniably vital, the comfort and solace many find in their pets are immeasurable. This sentiment is beautifully echoed by AFSP’s director of writing and entertainment outreach, Brett Wean, who commented, “Suicide is a complex health-related issue – and sometimes, a simple line from a song helps to let someone at risk know they are not alone in what they’re feeling, and that help is available.” The organization even hosts “Paws for Prevention” events, dog-themed variations of their “Out of the Darkness Walks,” further underscoring the powerful role pets play in mental well-being.

“Waylon” is the latest glimpse into Gilman’s forthcoming Bluegrass album, Roller Coaster. This highly anticipated project has already seen the release of tracks like the No. 2 Bluegrass radio hit “Delta Queen,” the energetic title track “Roller Coaster,” the deeply emotional “Til You Come Home,” and a celebratory duet with Rhonda Vincent, “That’s Bluegrass To Me.” With each new offering, Gilman continues to solidify his unique position in the Bluegrass genre, masterfully blending his powerful vocals and heartfelt narratives with the authentic musicality of traditional Bluegrass. “Waylon” stands as a testament to his artistic maturity and his commitment to using his voice for a greater good, cementing his legacy not just as a singer, but as a compassionate storyteller who understands the profound power of a song.