Raised in the Appalachian foothills of northern Georgia, Christian Hayes was steeped in the traditions of southern storytelling from an early age. His grandfather, a professional poet, gifted him a journal at age 7 — a simple gesture that would go on to shape the foundation of Hayes’ identity as a songwriter. Now based in Atlanta and signed to Capitol Records, the 26-year-old singer-songwriter is charting a path rooted in emotional honesty, discipline, and timeless American roots music.

His debut EP Last I Love You is more than a musical introduction — it’s a farewell to a former self. Across five tracks, Hayes blends campfire balladry with raw folk-pop energy, threading deeply personal stories into each lyric. Tracks like “LILY,” a viral acoustic heartbreak anthem, and “Cheyenne,” inspired by a life-resetting conversation with his father, showcase Hayes' gift for crafting songs that feel lived-in and universally resonant. Meanwhile, upbeat moments like “Black Gold” reveal his love for windows-down, radio-ready Americana with echoes of Noah Kahan and The Lumineers.

Drawing instead from a massive catalog of over 900 original songs written on his own. His time in the U.S. Navy Reserve shaped his dedication to structure, craft, and intention—values that shine through in his music. Teaming with producer Lukas Bracewell, Hayes has created a debut project that feels both cinematic and intimate.

As he continues to build his artistic identity, Hayes remains grounded in his roots. “This record is about who I used to be, and it sets the stage for who I’m going to be,” he says. “It’s the last ‘I love you’ to my old self.”