Hunter Hayes Gives A Crash Course In Country Music
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Before Hunter Hayes takes the stage tomorrow at Philly 4th Of July Jam, there are a few things you ought to know about the young country star from Louisiana. Fortunately for you, we recently chewed the fat with Hayes about Encore, the re-release of his debut album, and the music any respectable young country fan needs to have in his collection.
Check the clip above to find out how Hayes reworked his album,. Many of those songs are on a lot of playlists, but what would he include on his Young Guy's Guide to Good Country?
"Well, you've got to start with Diamond Rio, because that's kinda what I started with," says Hayes, referring to the Nashville band that hit big with songs like "Meet in the Middle" and "I Believe." His list wouldn't be complete without some George Strait, Garth Brooks, and Bryan White.
"I love listening to Gordie Sampson's records," Hayes says when the conversation shifts to country songwriters. "I wrote with him and he's written a lot of great country music." Sampson has penned hits for Dierks Bentley, Kieth Urban and others. There's no forgetting, Luke Laird, either. He's collaborated with Hayes and has been tapped to work with Blake Shelton and Tim McGraw. If you already know those guys, then try Nickel Creek and Rascal Flatts; two of Hayes' contemporary favorites.
Tune in tomorrow from 8-11 p.m. ET on VH1 to catch Hayes alongside The Roots, Jill Scott, and more for the 2013 Philly 4th Of July Jam. Not near a TV, then watch the live stream on VH1 - #PhillyJam
Yes, there will be amazing fireworks!