From the corn fields of a small town in Iowa to the bright lights and big stages of Nashville and beyond, singer-songwriter Hailey Whitters is a star on the rise, winning Academy of Country Music Awards “New Female Artist of The Year” for ‘23. We connected to chat about the tour stops she circles, the musicians whose tunes have helped shape her style, and where she grabs a cold one when she’s back home.
Q:
You have countless performances at your back, what’s your favorite venue you’ve ever played and why?
A:
I love playing the Grand Ole Opry. I was 15 years old when I saw a performance there for the first time. I saw Little Jimmy Dickens that night and walked right up to him and said, “My name is Hailey Whitters and I’m gonna be in country music one day.” Every time I play that stage, I think back to younger me and think, she’s so proud of me right now.
Q:
You’ve got a ton of tour dates already on the calendar this year, which shows/festivals are you most looking forward to?
A:
I think Stagecoach takes the cake! I’ve played it before, and it’s always so full of energy. I was on a small stage the last time we played, but this time we’re playing Friday night on the main stage which is a huge step for me! I can’t wait.
Q:
We’re big fans of timeless craft and in honoring those who came before us with the work we do. Who do you draw inspiration from when you’re writing and performing?
A:
I study songwriters like John Prine, Rodney Crowell, Emmylou Harris, Gillian Welch, and Townes Van Zandt. I also draw a lot of inspiration from the female country artists from the 90s — there are some Patty Loveless, Kathy Mattea, and Deana Carter songs that were my northern star for ‘I’m in Love’. From the more recent years, I have to give credit to Chris Stapleton, the Love Junkies (Lori McKenna, Hillary Lindsay, Liz Rose), Rodney Clawson, and many more. Nashville is chock full of incredible songwriters who are the backbone of this entire genre.
Q:
How would you describe your style? Specifically when you are playing a show or festival.
A:
I love to play up my costumes on stage! Anything girly, vintage, fun, I believe the kids these days call it ‘coquette’? I pull a lot of vintage dresses and have them altered to be a little more modern. I love ribbons, lace, fun sleeves, and of course patchwork. Then of course, you gotta tie it all together with some Tecovas boots!
Q:
Anything you always have with you or are wearing on stage?
A:
I’ve learned this lesson the hard way… when I am wearing a short dress on stage, I’m never without my corn star bloomers!
Q:
Any advice you’d give fans for attending a festival for the first time? Or even their first concert?
A:
Hydrate, and have fun! Try not to be on your phone too much. It’s way more fun when you’re singin’ along and living in the moment… trust me those iPhone videos aren’t going to do it justice.
Q:
One more question, any good dive bars in Shueyville, IA?
A:
You know it! It’s technically in Swisher, IA, but the Black Squirrel is the best! Next time we’re there, Busch Light on me :)