BIO

Born and raised in western Kentucky, Hayley Payne is an authentic, vivacious girl-next-door who has had music in her blood for as long as she can remember. While she began her musical journey participating in the local community theater and playing piano, there was one genre in particular that tugged on her heartstrings the most - country music. After writing her first song at age nine, she was hooked on the arts of storytelling and entertaining - and she thought she had big feelings to write about then!

Hayley’s music is the embodiment of her heart on her sleeve. With a purity reminiscent of traditional country greats, her sweet yet powerful voice has an innocent richness that captivates her listeners. Her relatable, yet unique lyrics have been described as "little magic tricks," and her comfort on stage captures her audiences. You can find Hayley rocking denim, laughing very loudly, and sharing her music in a way that draws listeners in as if they are her close friends. 

At 25 years of age, Payne has graced many stages all over the country; from RodeoHouston to the Key West Songwriters Festival to the legendary Bluebird Cafe. She has had the honor of opening for country music icons Lee Ann Womack, Eddie Montgomery of Montgomery Gentry, Pam Tillis, Terri Clark, Suzy Bogguss, and John Michael Montgomery; as well as today’s country stars Chris Janson, Drew Baldridge, and Ashland Craft.

A CMA Member and a finalist in the 2022 International Songwriting Competition, Hayley Payne is immersing herself in the Nashville music scene. She has been spotlighted on CMT.com, CMT Australia, Heartland, The Country Network, and many more country music platforms. Her music has been featured on Spotify’s Fresh Finds Country, New Music Friday Country, and Next From Nashville editorial playlists; as well as Apple Music Country’s New in Country playlist and Best New Songs list, amassing more than 1.75 million streams from listeners all over the world. An accomplished songwriter as well, Payne has written songs recorded by other artists including Grace Tyler, Averie Bielski, Emma Caroline, Molly Lovette, Tarrah, and Julia Larkin.

With an ever-growing social media presence of over 32,000 followers, Hayley enjoys sharing her musical and personal experiences with her fans. She believes that music is all about connection, and she hopes to inspire others with her music in the same way that her favorite artists have inspired her.