Singer, songwriter, musician, producer – Hunter Hayes wears many hats in the country music world, and he‘s accomplished an astounding amount for someone so young. Born September 9, 1991 in Louisiana, Hayes has been touring professionally since age 4, released 3 hit albums, scored 5 #1 singles, holds several Guinness World Records, and became the youngest solo male artist to top the Billboard country charts – all by the age of 23.
Brief Profile
Full Name: Hunter Easton Hayes
Birthday: September 9, 1991
Age: 32
Hometown: Breaux Bridge, Louisiana
Height: 5‘ 6" (168 cm)
Net Worth: $4 million (Estimated)
Social Media: 1.8 million Instagram followers, 1.6 million Facebook fans, 840k Twitter followers
Official Website: HunterHayes.com
Musical Upbringing & Early Influences
Hayes showed a natural musical aptitude from the time he was a toddler. He began singing at age 2, learned to play guitar at 3, and picked up various instruments like accordion and drums simply by listening and observing. Young Hayes absorbed the diverse musical styles of his Louisiana upbringing – Cajun, country, jazz, blues. Some early influences included acts like Alison Krauss, Keith Urban, Matchbox Twenty, and Garth Brooks, whom Hayes cites as his main inspiration for pursuing country music.
Seeing Shania Twain in concert at age 4 made a huge impact and convinced him that music was his calling. Stevie Wonder and James Taylor were also among his childhood hero. Throughout his teen years, Hayes tirelessly honed his songwriting and performance skills, moving to Nashville at 17 to break into the industry.
His Songwriting and Musical Talents
In addition to his expressive lead vocals, Hayes plays over 30 instruments expertly, including guitar, piano, drums, bass, mandolin, bouzouki, banjo, and assorted percussion. His live shows highlight both his diverse instrumental skills and seemingly boundless energy, as he moves swiftly between instruments positioned around the stage.
As a songwriter, Hayes crafts infectious country-pop melodies laced with soulful vocals and vulnerable, relatable lyrics about love, relationships, and chasing dreams. He co-writes many of his songs and counts esteemed musicians like Bonnie Raitt and Rascal Flatts among his co-writing credits.
Career Highlights
Since his debut, Hayes has accumulated accomplishments unusual for someone so young. After his self-titled album went platinum, the smash hit "Wanted" made him the youngest solo male artist to top the country charts at age 21. Just a few highlights of his glittering career so far:
- 3 hit studio albums: Hunter Hayes (2011), Storyline (2014), Wild Blue (Part 1) (2019)
- 5 #1 Country Airplay singles including "Wanted" and "I Want Crazy"
- Named New Artist of the Year at the 2012 CMA Awards
- Nominated for 3 Grammys including Best New Artist (2013)
- Guinness World Records for most concerts played in one year (398 shows in 2013)
- Toured with Carrie Underwood, Rascal Flatts, Keith Urban, Lady Antebellum
Notable Tours and Live Performances
Hayes thrives on the energy and connection of playing live shows. He‘s opened for the biggest names in country music and built a reputation for his lively, instrument-packed solo concerts. His "Most Instruments Played in One Show" record was set at the 2021 New Orleans Jazz Fest when he amazingly played 10 instruments within one song!
Some standout tours/performances over Hayes‘ career:
- Opening for Carrie Underwood on her Blown Away Tour (2012-13)
- Co-headlining the CKNB Outnumber Hunger Concert (2013)
- Joining Lady Antebellum‘s Take Me Downtown Tour (2014)
- Performing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (2021)
- Playing 10 instruments to set the Guinness World Record at Jazz Fest in New Orleans (2021)
Why We Love Hunter Hayes
For his fans, dubbed "Hayniacs," Hayes‘ appeal stems both from his incredible musicality and his humility, work ethic, and commitment to giving back. Despite his early success, he has remained grounded and grateful. His nonprofit Bandwagon Foundation has done extensive charity work supporting children‘s hospitals, disaster relief, and music education.
Ultimately Hunter Hayes is admired for his raw talent, open heart, and youthful exuberance. He‘s a friendly, down-to-earth Louisiana guy who happens to also be a world-class performer and an inspiration to aspiring young musicians everywhere.
