Hayes Carll

Hayes Carll is an American singer-songwriter known for blending rock and roll, country, and folk influences in his music. Carll began writing songs at age 15, drawing inspiration from artists such as Bob Dylan, John Prine, Kris Kristofferson, and the writings of Jack Kerouac. His songwriting is recognized for its plain-spoken poetry and sense of humor, contributing to his reputation in the Americana and roots music genres.

Carll started his career performing cover songs in bars around Crystal Beach, Texas, before becoming involved with The Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe in Galveston. There, he worked as a bartender and performed at open mic nights, eventually opening for touring artists including Ray Wylie Hubbard. Carll released his debut album, "Flowers and Liquor," on Compadre Records, earning comparisons to Townes Van Zandt. He later self-released his second album, "Little Rock," on Highway 87 Records, which became the first self-released album to reach No. 1 on the Americana Music Chart.

After signing with Lost Highway Records, Carll released "Trouble in Mind," featuring the song "She Left Me for Jesus," co-written with Brian Keane. Several of Carll's songs appeared in the film "Country Strong." He continued to build his profile as a Texas singer-songwriter with the release of "KMAG YOYO (& Other American Stories)," which won the Americana Music Association's Album of the Year Award and appeared on multiple best-of lists.

Carll's songwriting gained further recognition when Lee Ann Womack covered his song "Chances Are," resulting in Grammy nominations for both artists. Womack's album "The Way I'm Livin'" also received a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album. Carll's album "Lovers and Leavers" led to multiple honors at the Austin Music Awards, including Musician of the Year, Album of the Year, Songwriter of the Year, Best Male Vocalist, and Austin Song of the Year for "The Sake of the Song." His songs have been recorded by Kenny Chesney, Brothers Osborne, and Jack Ingram, among others.

Carll collaborated with the Band of Heathens on the project "Hayes and the Heathens" and toured in support of the album. He released the solo album "We're Only Human," which explores themes of life, love, and social commentary. Carll has performed on CBS Saturday Morning, Austin City Limits, Jools Holland, and The Tonight Show. He supports several charitable organizations, including the Alzheimer's Association, Guitars for Vets, the Health Alliance for Austin Musicians, and the Second Harvest Food Bank.