HAYDEL Talks Music, Inspiration, and Staying True to Louisiana Roots
- louisianacountrymu
- Dec 5
- 3 min read
By Louisiana Country Music
In a recent episode of Louisiana Country Music LIVE, we sat down with HAYDEL, a Louisiana-born artist now making his mark in Nashville. What unfolded was more than just a conversation — it was a deeply honest look into the roots, redemption, and real-life stories that shape his music.
1. From Houma to Nashville
HAYDEL grew up in Houma, Louisiana, close to the marshes and the rhythms of coastal life. Music found
him early — his dad played piano, and young HAYDEL would sit underneath the piano listening to everything from Elton John to Dr. John. By age 7, he had a guitar in his hands, and he never put it down.
He first envisioned himself as a blues guitarist, performing with names like Tab Benoit and Mark
Broussard. But as his songwriting deepened, Nashville kept calling — a place where he could write songs that were real, vulnerable, and story-driven.
2. Defining His Sound: Soul, Grit, and Early-2000s Influence
HAYDEL says his sound blends modern country with the emotional grit of early-2000s rock. Think: guitar-forward melodies, honest lyrics, and real stories. He cites John Mayer, Keith Urban, and Brad Paisley as influences — but emphasizes that his true goal is to make music rooted in authenticity and lived experience.
3. “I Shouldn’t Be Here” — A Story of Redemption
One of the most powerful parts of the interview is when HAYDEL opens up about his single, “I Shouldn’t Be Here.” The song isn’t just music — it’s his testimony.
He shares openly about his past drinking, the moment everything caught up with him, and a terrifying car crash that could have ended his life:
“I started to experience some real-life consequences because of my drinking … I was pulled out the window of a car wrapped around a tree.”
The song came from a front-porch conversation where he told his co-writers, Barrett Babber and Marty Dodson, “I want to write something real.” That honesty shaped the track, turning personal heartbreak into something universal.
4. Finding Strength in Vulnerability
HAYDEL admits he was nervous about releasing something so personal — but he believes transparency is part of his purpose.
“There’s so much power … when you sit down with somebody and have a heart-to-heart. When you’re real, it gives hope.”
He wants his story to serve as proof that redemption is possible — that you can come back strong, and that your lowest moments can become the beginning of your rise.
5. Follow HAYDEL’s Next Chapter
If you want to follow his journey, new releases, and upcoming shows:
Website: haydelofficial.com
Streaming: Look up HAYDEL to find "I Shouldn’t Be Here" and his latest releases that continue the thread of vulnerability and real-life storytelling
Final Thoughts
This interview isn’t just an introduction to HAYDEL — it’s a deep look into who he is, what he’s survived, and how he’s turning his truth into something that can help others. If you love stories about resilience, faith, and Louisiana roots, this episode is a must-watch.
👉 Watch the full interview on YouTube — and stay tuned. HAYDEL’s story is only beginning.
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