Wade Hayes

Country music’s power has always been in its ability to reflect real life, and few artists have a stronger gift for capturing both heartache and hope than Wade Hayes. In the past few years, the singer/songwriter has navigated a complicated journey that has produced some of the most potent songs of his already impressive career. Surviving stage IV colon cancer, not just once but twice, has given Hayes a unique perspective of the fragility of life and the strength of the human spirit. Those lessons learned are embodied in the songs on Go Live Your Life.

Far from being a heavy manifesto on pain and survival, Go Live Your Life is actually a vibrant tapestry that is both poignant and playful. The title track is an upbeat anthem that celebrates living life to the fullest while “Dirt Road” pays homage to his Oklahoma roots and “Remember the Alimony” is a tongue-in-cheek slice of advice to a friend on the precipice of another romantic mistake. “She is Home” is a tender love song about life’s true priorities while “If the Sun Comes Up” is a powerful ballad about moving on. Anchored by Hayes insightful songwriting and brought to life through his warm, rich baritone, the songs on Go Life Your Life are steeped in country’s best traditions yet have a contemporary edge.

Hayes co-produced the album with longtime friend Dave McAfee. “Dave and I got together and listened to songs and honed it down to what we thought fit on this project,” says Hayes, who wrote or co-wrote all but one song on Go Live Your Life. “I’m very fortunate getting to this next step. After getting through the years of ill health and bad luck, I’m kind of laser focused right now. Getting sick has changed me immensely. It’s as if I’m looking through different eyeballs now. “I appreciate everything so much more. I realize how much I took for granted.”