From Appalachian Foothills to Nashville Stages: The Authentic Journey of Christian Hayes
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Nestled in the verdant embrace of the Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, a young Christian Hayes absorbed the rich tradition of Southern storytelling like the very air he breathed. His grandfather, a poet by trade and a mentor by heart, gifted him a journal at the tender age of seven, igniting a spark that would illuminate his path all the way to the heart of country music: Nashville.
This early encouragement blossomed into a lifelong habit, a sanctuary where Hayes could weave his observations, emotions, and burgeoning narratives. Years later, the discipline honed during his service in the US Navy Reserve would seamlessly integrate with his artistic pursuits. This unique blend of structure and creativity fueled an extraordinary outpouring of songwriting, resulting in a remarkable catalog of over 900 original songs by his mid-twenties.
Now, the world is invited to witness the fruits of this dedicated journey with the release of Last I Love You, Hayes’ debut EP on Capitol Records. Produced by the discerning ear of Lukas Bracewell, the EP is a captivating tapestry woven from Hayes’ distinctive brand of American roots music. It’s a sound that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, a testament to his ability to honor tradition while forging his own path.
Last I Love You showcases the breadth of Hayes’ artistry. It features the viral sensation “LILY,” a track that resonated deeply with listeners, amassing over three million streams even before the EP’s official launch. The anthemic “Black Gold” pulses with raw energy, while the remaining tracks effortlessly navigate between gentle, introspective ballads, cinematic folk soundscapes that paint vivid pictures, and the kind of rowdy, barn-burning Americana that makes you want to stomp your feet and raise a glass.
The early months of 2025 have already marked significant milestones in Hayes’ burgeoning career. He graced the hallowed stages of both the Grand Ole Opry and the legendary Bluebird Cafe, moments that undoubtedly felt like a homecoming for an artist whose love for songwriting was nurtured from such a young age. For Hayes, music has always been more than just melodies and lyrics; it’s been a vital avenue for processing the complex emotions that accompany growth and the inevitable heartaches that life throws our way.
His latest single, “Through It All,” is a poignant example of this introspective approach. The song delves into the challenging process of moving on from a relationship, navigating the journey of self-reliance when the promised support falters. In his own words, Hayes explains, “‘Through It All’ is a celebration of all the times I made it through things without the people who promised they’d be there for me. It’s a song about realizing you’re strong enough – and you are enough… It’s something I hope you can find strength in as well.”
Co-written with Jonah Kagen and produced by Kagen, the emotional ballad lays bare the anguish of a relationship’s end, particularly with someone who was envisioned as a steadfast partner in weathering life’s storms. It’s a testament to Hayes’ vulnerability and his ability to articulate universal experiences with raw honesty.
Last I Love You, released in September 2024, serves as a compelling introduction to Hayes’ genre-bending style. It’s an EP that confidently fuses the storytelling heart of Americana with the nuanced textures of folk, creating a sonic landscape that is both expansive and deeply personal. At the core of this sound is Hayes himself, a musician who possesses a wisdom beyond his years, understanding that true progress often requires a thoughtful look back.
Genuine and articulate, Hayes carries the legacy of a family steeped in storytelling, most notably through his Grandpa Jack, a poet whose influence clearly shaped his grandson’s artistic sensibilities. Raised in the cradle of Appalachian culture, Hayes picked up a guitar at the age of eight, setting the stage for the journey that would eventually lead him to Nashville. His commitment extended beyond music; after high school, he proudly served in the U.S. Navy Reserve while pursuing his education at the University of Alabama, further instilling the discipline that now informs his songwriting.
His Grand Ole Opry debut on February 1st was a momentous occasion, where he shared two songs with the captivated audience: the unreleased gem “Home Sweet Home” and his viral hit, “LILY.” This summer will see another significant debut as Hayes takes the stage at CMA Fest, performing on the Hard Rock Stage, further solidifying his place in the contemporary country music landscape.
For those eager to witness the captivating artistry of Christian Hayes live, here are his upcoming 2025 tour dates:
Upcoming 2025 Tour Dates:
- June 5 // CMA Fest // Nashville, TN
- June 6 // Downtown Historic McKinney Square // McKinney, TX
- June 26 // Jackalope Jamboree 2025 // Pendleton, OR
- Sept. 11 // Born & Raised 2025 // Pryor, OK
Christian Hayes is an artist whose journey is as compelling as his music. From the storytelling traditions of his Appalachian upbringing to the discipline of his military service, every experience has shaped the authentic voice that resonates through his songs. With Last I Love You and the poignant “Through It All,” Hayes has firmly established himself as a compelling new voice in American roots music, one that invites listeners to connect with his vulnerability, his strength, and the enduring power of a well-told story. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this talent firsthand as he takes his music to stages across the country.
Photo Credit: Eric Ryan Anderson