Waylon Hanel on Country Music News International Radio Show!
February 22th interviewed by Big Al Weekley!
Waylon Hanel: A Rising Star with a Vintage Vibe – By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Twenty-three-year-old Waylon Hanel is making waves in the country music scene. This self-taught singer-songwriter from Michigan possesses a captivating stage presence, textured vocals, and a knack for vivid storytelling that belies his young age. His down-to-earth style and bold delivery have quickly garnered him recognition, and his music showcases a unique artistic individuality. Named after the legendary Waylon Jennings, one of his biggest influences, Hanel has clearly worked to cultivate a vintage signature sound all his own.
Hanel officially arrived on the scene with his self-titled EP, WAYLON HANEL, in November 2022, featuring five original tracks. He quickly followed up with his sophomore album, NEW OLD OUTLAWS, in May 2023. The spotlighted bonus track, “New Old Outlaws Rewind,” made an impressive showing, charting at No. 54 on the MusicRow Mainstream Country Breakout Chart in Spring 2023. He continued his momentum with his second single, “He Don’t Mind,” which also reached No. 54 on the charts in June 2023. His third single, “Lighten That Load,” from his third album DON’T MESS WITH MY COUNTRY, climbed to No. 43 in Spring 2024. Hanel’s current single, “Blackberry Brandy,” has already made a splash, entering the chart as the HIGHEST DEBUTED SINGLE in early December 2024.
In just five short years, Hanel has shared the stage with some of country music’s biggest names, opening for artists such as Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Chris Cagle, Walker Hayes, Ashley McBryde, Josh Turner, Jo Dee Messina, Tyler Farr, Mitchell Tenpenny, Lonestar, Matt Stell, Elvie Shane, Jerrod Niemann, Uncle Kracker, Creed Fisher, Ray Scott, Colt Ford, Chayce Beckham, and Ward Davis. These experiences have undoubtedly contributed to his growth as a performer and solidified his place within the broader country music community.
Beyond his impressive list of opening act credits, Hanel has also had the distinct honor of performing the National Anthem for former PRESIDENT DONALD J. TRUMP in Flint, Michigan, in September 2024, and for VICE PRESIDENT J.D. VANCE in Saginaw, Michigan, in late October 2024. These high-profile performances further underscore his rising star status and recognition within the public eye.
With his vintage-inspired sound, powerful vocals, and compelling storytelling, Waylon Hanel is poised to become a significant force in country music. His dedication to his craft and his growing list of accomplishments make it clear that he is an artist to watch in the years to come.
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