Hunter Hayes was a rising star in Nashville’s music scene in the early 2010s. At 17, his song “Wanted” made him the youngest solo male artist to top the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. His first two albums, “Hunter Hayes” and “Storyline,” also succeeded wildly. He even received a Best New Artist nomination at the Grammy Awards.
However, the music industry can be unpredictable, and Hunter struggled to maintain his early success in the following years. If VH1’s “Where Are They Now” were still airing, he might have been featured.
So, what has Hunter Hayes been up to since his heyday? This article explores his journey, from dressing up as an astronaut and serenading on dating shows to dealing with mental health challenges and pursuing unique hobbies.
Hunter Hayes’ Cosmic Turn
In 2019, Hunter Hayes joined the eclectic lineup of contestants on the third season of Fox’s popular show, “The Masked Singer.” Among legendary singers like Chaka Khan and Dionne Warwick, as well as unexpected participants like Sarah Palin and Bret Michaels, Hayes took the stage dressed as an astronaut. His journey on the show lasted until Week 12 when his identity was finally revealed.
During his time on “The Masked Singer,” Hayes delighted audiences with a performance of One Direction’s “Story of My Life” and enjoyed the experience thoroughly. In an interview with Entertainment Weekly after his exit, the singer-songwriter encouraged other famous individuals to take the plunge, emphasizing the importance of having fun in the competition. He explained that the show’s success isn’t solely based on technical prowess but rather on embracing one’s unique personality.
Hayes, known for his hit songs, also hinted at a personal fear that could have deterred producers from casting him. He admitted to occasional mild claustrophobia but chose not to disclose it. He demonstrated his determination to overcome challenges and entertain the audience as the enigmatic astronaut on “The Masked Singer.”
Hunter Hayes’ Musical Transition: From Country to Pop with ‘Red Sky
In 2023, Hunter Hayes made a significant shift in his musical career by transitioning from country to pure pop with his fifth studio album, “Red Sky.” To achieve this transformation, he enlisted a star-studded team of producers and songwriters, including names like Dan Brook (known for Britney Spears), Alex Delicata (associated with Beyoncé), and Rollo (known for working with BTS).
Despite this departure from his country roots, Hayes was determined not to alienate his loyal fan base that he had built over the past decade. In an interview with Melodic Magazine to promote “Red Sky,” the Grammy Award nominee clarified his musical direction, stating that he hadn’t fundamentally changed his approach. Instead, he described the album as a journey that takes listeners from familiar sounds to exciting new musical territories that had been waiting to be explored.
Hunter Hayes Joins Forces with Hunter Brothers in Music Collaboration
In addition to his solo work, Hunter Hayes has been working as a producer. In 2020, he teamed up with the Canadian country music group Hunter Brothers on their song “Hard Dirt.” The collaboration was successful, leading to another joint effort on their track “Been a Minute” the following year.
Remarkably, Hayes has become an honorary member of the Hunter Brothers, as explained by the group in a 2021 interview with Canadian Beats. They expressed their excitement about working with him, describing the connection as something that felt destined.
The Hunter Brothers didn’t hold back their admiration, labeling Hayes a visionary and one of the most creative people they’ve ever encountered. They praised his unique ability to hear music in a profound way and bring out the genuine essence of their vocals.
Hayes’ Self-Care and Mental Health Journey
Hunter Hayes, who achieved chart-topping and Grammy-nominated success at a young age, has faced the ups and downs of fame, which have affected his mental health. Fortunately, the singer-songwriter has developed coping strategies to address these challenges.
In a 2023 interview with Wondermind, Hayes disclosed that he returned to therapy during the early stages of the pandemic. He now engages in regular therapeutic sessions, talking through his feelings twice a week when his schedule allows. Additionally, Hayes shared that he incorporates sensory deprivation tanks, acupuncture, and road trips in a convertible into his routine as essential aspects of self-care.
A year prior to the interview, the Louisiana native took on the role of ambassador for One Mind, a nonprofit dedicated to brain health. In a statement, Hayes expressed his pride in contributing to the cause, emphasizing the importance of fostering open conversations about mental health, reducing stigmas, and creating a safe space for individuals to share their own experiences.
The Star Takes a Different Approach to Dating
In 2018, Hunter Hayes and musician Libby Barnes ended their approximately four-year relationship. Since then, the country star hasn’t been publicly linked with anyone romantically. However, in 2020, he shared with ET that he was again open to finding someone special.
Interestingly, Hayes didn’t turn to dating apps like Tinder in his quest for love. Instead, two years later, he revealed in an interview with Audacity Check-In that he preferred to trust in the natural course of life, stating, “I haven’t done any apps because I just don’t think that’s my vibe. I’m trusting in the universe. I think I’m aligning myself to where and who I want to be. I’ve been letting go, so I feel like my time is coming.”
Despite his preference for traditional dating methods, Hayes dabbled in online matchmaking in 2021 when he participated in a Zoom-based speed dating game for iHeart Country. Known for his kind personality, Hayes selected all four contestants as winners during the game.
Hunter Hayes’ New Home in Malibu
Hunter Hayes, known for his millions of album sales and countless streams, has chosen a new place to call home. While he still maintains a residence in Nashville, the “Tattoo” singer has recently made Malibu his primary location.
In 2023, Hayes provided People with a tour of his property, affectionately named “Little Pilot Lodge.” He shared that despite initially considering living elsewhere, he fell in love with the place and couldn’t imagine life without it. He revealed that he had dreamed of such a home for nearly a decade.
The Grammy Award nominee described his cabin-style house, complete with recording studios and breathtaking mountainside views, as a source of inspiration for his music. He believes being in this part of California has a mystical and creative influence on his work, helping him disconnect from the business aspects of his career and feel fully alive like he’s on a musical vacation.