Interview: Hailey Whitters Talks New "Raised" Album, Headlining A Tour, & Musical Influences

Hailey Whitters is a country singer-songwriter from Shueyville, Iowa. She is gearing up to release her new album “Raised” while currently on her “Heartland” tour across the country. I had the opportunity to ask her a few questions and learn about Hailey and her music.

Concert Crap: What kind of music did you listen to growing up?

I listened to a lot of country radio, Dixie Chicks, Shania, Trisha Yearwood.

CC: Who was your first favorite artist?

The first favorite I can remember was the Dixie Chicks. I just loved their ‘Wide Open Spaces’ record.

CC: When did you start making music? What got you started?

I got my first guitar at 14 and started writing a few songs and then that led to playing bars around my hometown.

CC: Where do you record your music?

I’ve made all my records at Sound Emporium in Nashville.

CC: How would you describe your music and your sound?

To me, it just feels like country music. I love the storytelling in country music and I’ve always tried to do that with my writing.

CC: Is there a story behind “Everything She Ain’t”?

Not really. I was writing with Ryan Tyndell and Bryan Simpson that day and I threw out that hook and we all really loved it so we started chasing it.

CC: How does Raised differ from your past music? Or does it?

It feels a lot more country. There’s a lot more fiddle and steel. I think it feels like the next natural progression from my previous record.

CC: How does being an opener compare to headlining a tour?

It’s been really cool to be a headliner. I’m stoked about the fact that we now have 90 minutes to share with our audience rather than the typical 30-40 min opening set. It allows us to play some of the deeper cuts off the album. I’m grateful that the fans are showing up and buying tickets! It’s a really cool feeling.

CC: Do you have a favorite city you performed in?

I don’t know if I have an overall favorite, I have lots of favorites for lots of different reasons. It mostly just depends on how the show was, if we have a good show, it’s probably going to be a “favorite” and one that we’ll be eager to return to.

CC: Besides your tour and the Raised Album, do you have any goals or plans for 2022?

Not really, just looking forward to getting this record out and playing it for everyone!

Follow Hailey Whitters:

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Instagram

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Post by Spencer Bernard