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By Louisiana Country Music A Louisiana Original Still Going Strong From Sarepta to stardom — Trace Adkins’ journey began with pure Louisiana grit. Photo: Trace Adkins, Facebook Few voices in country music carry the weight, warmth, and grit of Trace Adkins . Born in Sarepta, Louisiana , Adkins has spent more than three decades turning his small-town roots into timeless country gold. He’s the kind of artist who doesn’t just sing about life — he lives  it. From oil rigs to the Opry, from the bayou to Broadway, Adkins has always worn his Louisiana roots like a badge of honor. Since releasing his debut album Dreamin’ Out Loud   in 1996, Adkins has racked up over 11 million albums sold , 15 Top 10 hits , and unforgettable anthems like “You’re Gonna Miss This,” “Every Light in the House,” and “Ladies Love Country Boys.” His deep baritone and honest storytelling have made him one of country’s most distinctive voices — and one of Louisiana’s most enduring exports. Surprise CMA Fest Moment Reminds Fans Why They Love Him This summer, Adkins brought the house down in Nashville when he made a surprise appearance during Blake Shelton’s CMA Fest 2025  set. The longtime friends tore through “ Hillbilly Bone ” sending the crowd into a frenzy that felt like a master class in country showmanship. “He is a brother to me. So anytime I get him on stage with me, I just want to keep him out there,” Shelton fondly said of Adkins . That viral moment was more than nostalgia — it was proof that Adkins’ stage presence hasn’t faded an inch. When Trace steps into the spotlight, the crowd feels it. Every note, every grin, every story between songs reminds fans why he’s still one of country music’s most respected veterans. Still Giving Back: A Voice for America’s Heroes This fall, Adkins will host and perform on PBS’s “Salute to Service: A Veterans Day Celebration” , airing nationwide on Veterans Day 2025. The televised event will pay tribute to the nation’s service members through live performances and stories of courage — a fitting role for Adkins, who’s long been a champion for the U.S. military. Adkins will host and perform at PBS’s Salute to Service: A Veterans Day Celebration. Photo: traceadkins.com Over the years, he’s taken part in multiple USO tours, performed for troops overseas, and become a familiar face at military charity events. His 2005 single “ Arlington ” still stands as one of the most powerful tributes to America’s fallen heroes in country music history. “It was such a high honor to be asked to be involved with Salute to Service... I'm so proud to be part of this and love to support our troops as much as I can.” Adkins said in the announcement on TraceAdkins.com . Three Decades of Country Grit and Grace As 2025 rolls on, Trace Adkins continues to do what he’s always done best — connect. Whether he’s headlining a festival, surprising fans on stage, or shaking hands after a show, Adkins brings the same grounded, gracious energy that’s defined him since his days in Sarepta . He’s seen trends come and go, but his brand of storytelling never went out of style. That rare mix of power and peace , of Southern pride and simple truth , is what keeps fans — especially those from Louisiana — coming back for more. A Louisiana Heart That Never Left Home Even after platinum albums , national tours , and television stardom , Adkins still carries Louisiana with him — in his voice, his songs, and his spirit. From Sarepta to Nashville and beyond, he’s proof that true country roots don’t fade with fame. They grow stronger. So when that unmistakable baritone rolls through your radio, you’re not just hearing a country legend — you’re hearing a little piece of home. ❤️ listen now follow trace's journey Related Stories Lainey Wilson Makes Country Music History in 2025 Baton Rouge Songwriter Benjy Davis on Cody Johnson’s “The Painter”

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 . Photo via Facebook, HAYDEL 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 Socials:   Instagram , TikTok , Facebook , Youtube 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. Love Stories Like this? Subscribe to the Louisiana Country Music Newsletter  for more artist spotlights, local stories, new releases, and updates from Louisiana’s rising country stars.   Follow your favorite Louisiana artists HERE.

By Louisiana Country Music Photo via Facebook, Jacob Davis When it comes to Louisiana country artists carrying Louisiana pride all the way to Nashville, few stories feel as personal — or as powerful — as Jacob and Jordan Davis . Born and raised in Shreveport , the two grew up surrounded by the kind of southern storytelling that naturally found its way into their songs and helped shape their careers in country music . For the Davis brothers, music isn’t just a career — it’s a family tradition . Their uncle, Stan Paul Davis , penned hits for Tracy Lawrence back in the ’90s, laying the foundation for what would become a multi-generation Nashville legacy rooted deeply in Louisiana culture. Jordan Davis: From Bayou Dreams to Platinum Hits Before he was headlining tours, earning awards, and stacking No. 1 country hits , Jordan Davis  was a kid walking the halls of C.E. Byrd High School , dreaming big under the Shreveport sky. After earning a degree from Louisiana State University (LSU), he packed his truck for Nashville — a move that kicked off one of the strongest career climbs in modern country music. His debut single, “Singles You Up,”   shot to the top of the charts in 2018, introducing fans to a fresh sound that blended Louisiana storytelling with Nashville’s evolving production. Since then, he’s delivered hit after hit — “Take It From Me,” “Next Thing You Know,”   and the Platinum-selling “Buy Dirt”  — a career-defining song co-written with none other than his brother, Jacob. Despite his chart-topping success, Jordan has never strayed far from his roots. His easygoing charm, southern humility, and faith-centered lyrics all point back to Louisiana — the place that first taught him how to tell a story. Jacob Davis: The Songwriter Behind the Hits While Jordan’s name shines on marquees, his older brother Jacob Davis  has carved out a creative identity just behind the curtain — one shaped by hard work, quiet confidence, and a deep respect for the craft. Before pursuing music full-time, Jacob graduated from LSU  and worked on an oil rig off the Gulf Coast , a job that forged his work ethic long before he ever stepped into a Nashville writing room. He quickly earned a reputation for showing up prepared, listening well, and writing lyrics that feel lived-in rather than tailored for trends. After releasing his own 2017 single, “What I Wanna Be,”   he soon discovered that his true passion lay in songwriting and collaboration. In 2020, he signed with Universal Music Publishing Group , where he continues to craft honest, story-driven songs for artists across Nashville. From co-writing Jordan’s “Take It From Me,” “Buy Dirt,”  and “Tucson Too Late,”  to shaping music for other artists, Jacob’s path stands confidently on its own — a testament to a Louisiana storyteller who traded the rig for a notebook and never looked back. A Louisiana Legacy that Runs Deep From Shreveport’s pine-lined streets to Nashville’s bright lights , the Davis brothers carry Louisiana with them everywhere they go. You can hear it in their drawl, their family-first values, and their lyrics — the kind that make you feel something true. Photo Via Facebook, Jordan Davis Their music reminds us that success doesn’t mean leaving your roots behind. It means carrying them with you — and sharing a little piece of home with the world. So whether you’re blasting “Buy Dirt”  on a backroad or catching Jordan live on tour, remember this: that sound, that soul, that storytelling — it all started right here, in Louisiana . listen now follow the Davis Brothers Love Stories Like this? Subscribe to the Louisiana Country Music Newsletter  for more artist spotlights, local stories, new releases, and updates from Louisiana’s rising country stars. Follow your favorite Louisiana artists HERE.

By Louisiana Country Music Last night at the 59th Annual CMA Awards , Lainey Wilson didn’t just show up — she showed out . Serving as the night’s host (with an impressive 8 outfit changes ), delivering two powerhouse performances , and sweeping three of the biggest awards  of the evening, the Baskin, Louisiana native cemented herself as one of country music’s defining artists of this generation. From the moment the show opened, Lainey carried the room with that unmistakable Louisiana warmth — grounded , genuine , and full of fire . Hosting the ceremony is no small responsibility, but she handled it with the same authenticity and charisma that have made fans fall in love with her music. She wasn’t just reading lines; she owned the night with humor, humility, and her signature “bell-bottom country” charm. And then came the awards. 🏆 A Triple Win for the Bayou Queen Lainey walked away with: Entertainer of the Year, 2025  — the highest honor of the night, and now her second  time winning it. Album of the Year, 2025  for Whirlwind  — another deeply personal chapter in her storytelling legacy. Female Vocalist of the Year, 2025  — marking her fourth straight  win in the category. These aren’t just trophies. These are milestones . They represent years of hard work, heart, and unwavering grit — the kind of dedication that grows from staying true to who you are and honoring the people who’ve supported you along the way. Performances Worth Remembering Lainey delivered not one, but two unforgettable performances  that showcased her range, reverence for country music, and one-of-a-kind presence. First , she kicked off the night with a high-energy medley of iconic country hits , honoring the legends and modern stars who shaped the genre. It was a love letter to the genre — bold, joyful, and powerful — reminding everyone that Lainey knows the roots of country because she lives  them. Later in the show , she returned to the stage with her own song, “Ring Finger”  — a sassy story song delivered with feisty, unapologetic energy . Every note carried attitude and grit, perfectly reflecting the bold personality that has fans rooting for her from Louisiana to Nashville. A Love Letter Back to Her Fans In her acceptance speeches, Lainey thanked her team, her supporters, and the people who have believed in her since the beginning. But anyone watching could feel it: she hasn’t forgotten where she comes from. That’s something you can’t fake. She may travel the world, she may stand under the brightest lights in Nashville, but her feet remain firmly planted in the Louisiana soil that raised her. Louisiana Is Cheering Loud For us here at Louisiana Country Music , this isn’t just a win for Lainey — it’s a win for every small town, every parish, every kid writing songs in their bedroom, and every person who believes that where you come from can fuel where you’re going. Lainey Wilson didn’t just make history last night. She made Louisiana proud. And we hope she knows that every step she takes, we’re right behind her — cheering, celebrating, and beaming with pride. Follow Lainey's journey Photo Courtesy, Red Light Management Want More Like this? Join us at Louisiana Country Music and on socials for artist spotlights, local stories, new releases, and updates from Louisiana’s legends, and rising country stars.   Follow your favorite Louisiana artists HERE.

By Louisiana Country Music Half a Mind EP by Kylie Frey If you’ve been watching the rise of Louisiana country talent, you’ll want to circle this one: Kylie Frey , a proud Louisiana girl who blends hometown grit with modern heart-country, has dropped her new EP Half a Mind . This six-song collection captures her sharp storytelling, soulful vocals, and unmistakable Louisiana spirit — the kind of artistry that reminds us why we love showcasing homegrown voices with something real to say. A Voice Rooted in Louisiana, Reaching Far Beyond Kylie doesn’t just lean on her Louisiana roots — she carries them with her into every verse and chorus. From rodeo arenas to the Nashville stage, her sound bridges tradition and truth. Whether you’re sitting on a porch in Lafayette or a rooftop in New York, her music feels honest, heartfelt, and unmistakably hers. With Half a Mind , Kylie proves that authenticity never goes out of style. Track-by-track breakdown “He Never Learned How” This heartbreak ballad uses rodeo imagery to paint a picture of a man who’s fearless in the arena but lost when it comes to love. Kylie’s delivery captures both admiration and ache , reminding listeners that strength and vulnerability often ride side by side. It’s a standout moment that showcases her storytelling at its best . “My John Wayne” A modern ode to the mythic cowboy — steadfast, flawed, and larger than life . Kylie tips her hat to timeless country values while making the story her own , blending warmth, grit, and a little cinematic swagger. It’s the kind of song that sounds like it could’ve been written fifty years ago , yet fits perfectly on today’s playlists. “Always Flowers” Gentle and reflective , this track feels like a deep breath after a long day. Through floral imagery and tender vocals, Kylie reminds us to slow down and find beauty in small, everyday moments . It’s a refreshing note of gratitude and grace that lingers long after the song fades. “The Closest Thing” Here, Kylie leans into emotional honesty — caught between love, longing, and uncertainty . The song’s simple phrasing makes the emotion hit harder, as if we’re hearing her sort through her heart in real time . It’s quietly powerful and deeply relatable . “Fort Worth” (feat. Randall King) A Texas-flavored duet that pairs Kylie’s soulful tone with Randall King ’s classic drawl. Together, they tell a story of place and memory, painting vivid scenes of late nights, open skies, and the pull of familiar ground . Even with its Lone Star backdrop, the song carries that unmistakable Louisiana sincerity . “Half a Mind to Go Crazy” The EP closes with a burst of energy — part confession, part catharsis. Over a driving groove, Kylie admits she’s got “half a mind” to let loose and forget her worries for a night. It’s rowdy, raw, and liberating — the perfect way to end an album that celebrates every side of being human. Final thoughts From start to finish, Half a Mind   feels like the perfect reflection of who Kylie Frey is — a Louisiana storyteller with a powerful voice and an even bigger heart. Each song shows a different shade of her artistry: fearless, grounded, tender, and tough. If you haven’t already, cue up Half a Mind  on your favorite streaming platform, add it to your playlist, and share it with someone who loves real country music. What track stood out most to you? Are you hearing that Louisiana twang, that storytelling edge, that authenticity we talk so much about here at LCM? Drop a comment and let us know. Thanks for supporting Louisiana artists. Stay tuned — we’ll be watching Kylie’s next move. listen now follow kylie's journey

By Louisiana Country Music Lainey Wilson is proving once again why she’s country music’s unstoppable force, and she’s doing it with her Louisiana roots front and center. Photo by Eric Ryan Anderson / Courtesy Red Light Management A Whirlwind of Success The Baskin, Louisiana native has gone from small-town dreamer to one of the most decorated artists in country music.  In 2025 alone, Lainey Wilson swept the ACM Awards , taking home: Entertainer of the Year Female Artist of the Year Album of the Year ( Whirlwind ) Artist-Songwriter of the Year It was a history-making night that cemented her as one of country’s brightest stars. Lainey Wilson's 2025 Her year didn’t stop there. Wilson kicked off her Whirlwind World Tour  with back-to-back sold-out shows in Baton Rouge , honoring her Louisiana fans first. She debuted a brand-new single, “ Somewhere Over Laredo ”  live at the American Music Awards , shared a heartfelt duet with Vince Gill  during the Emmy Awards  In Memoriam tribute, and even added “ Whataburger Brand Ambassador ” to her growing resume. With six current CMA nominations at the upcoming 59th Annual CMA Awards , including the award of the night, Entertainer of the Year , this year is shaping up to be her best yet. From Baskin to the Big Stage Baskin, a farming community of just over 200 people in northeast Louisiana, shaped both Wilson’s sound and her soul. She often recalls growing up in a close-knit family where hard work and storytelling weren’t just traditions, they were survival. Those Louisiana values of grit, family, and faith would become the foundation of her career. Moving to Nashville in 2011 with a camper trailer and a dream, she kept her head down and her ambitions high. It took time, dedication and years of hard work before anything paid off, but 10 years later her career finally started picking up. A Rising Star Lainey’s rise began with her 2021 No. 1 hit “Things a Man Oughta Know,”  followed by her Grammy-winning album Bell Bottom Country  in 2022. Since then she's become a member of the Grand Ole Opry, broke the record for the most No. 1 hits by a female country artist this decade  on U.S. country radio (as of late 2023), and her current album Whirlwind was also nominated for a Grammy. With over 1 billion streams, sold out headlining tours and acting credits on hit TV shows like Yellowstone , she’s become one of country’s most recognizable names. Staying True to Her Roots Wilson calls her style “ bell bottom country ”  a mix of classic country storytelling, southern rock grit, and bold personality. While Nashville gave her a stage, Louisiana gave her a voice. The Cajun rhythms, gospel harmonies, and back-porch jams she grew up around shaped the unique sound that has made her stand out in a crowded country landscape. Louisiana at Her Core Through it all, Lainey has never forgotten where she comes from. She often speaks about how her Louisiana roots keep her grounded . From the stories of small-town life to the southern sounds woven into her music, she’s proof that you can take the girl out of Louisiana, but you can’t take Louisiana out of the girl. Her success puts Baskin on the map, but more importantly, it inspires a new generation of artists from Louisiana who dream of following in her footsteps. What’s Next? With her career only accelerating, Lainey Wilson stands as a proud Louisiana export, one who embodies authenticity, resilience, and creativity . Whether it’s headlining tours, writing award-winning songs, or representing Louisiana on the world stage, Lainey is shaping country music’s future while honoring her past. For fans, following Lainey Wilson means following a Louisiana success story that’s still being written, and one that proves the power of small towns, big dreams, and the country spirit. Photo Courtesy Red Light Management Listen Now Follow Lainey's journey

By Louisiana Country Music How Benjy Davis brought Louisiana heart to Cody Johnson's No.1 Single, “The Painter” When Cody Johnson  released “The Painter”,  fans immediately recognized it as something special. The song’s heartfelt message — about love that brings color to life’s black and white — has connected deeply with listeners across the country. And behind that message is Benjy Davis , a Baton Rouge native whose songwriting has quietly shaped some of modern country’s most moving moments. Benjy Davis, Facebook @benjydavis From baton rouge roots to Nashville rooms Before Nashville ever knew his name, Benjy Davis was already leading a loyal following across Louisiana as frontman of the Benjy Davis Project , a Baton Rouge-based folk-rock group known for its rich storytelling and emotional depth. But while his voice first carried on local stages, it was in Nashville’s writing rooms  that Davis found his true calling. Over the years, he’s penned songs for Rascal Flatts, Jake Owen, Chris Young and more, carving out a respected reputation among Music City’s top-tier songwriters . Then came the session that would change everything — the day he helped bring “The Painter”  to life. The moment "the painter" was born Like most great songs, “The Painter”  started with a simple, honest idea. Co-writer Ryan Larkins  mentioned that his wife “always brought color to his life.” The line struck something in the room. Together with Benjy Davis  and Kat Higgins , that spark became a portrait of love painted through the lens of gratitude — a story about the kind of partner who sees light where others see walls. “For every wall I built, she saw a canvas.” That lyric became the heart of the song — and eventually, a career-defining moment for Cody Johnson. A Career High for Cody Johnson — and a Milestone for Its Writers “The Painter”  went on to become Cody Johnson’s second No. 1 single  at country radio, certified Gold , and NSAI's 2024 Song of the Year . It’s a love letter wrapped in melody, and Davis’s fingerprints are all over it. What makes the song so powerful is its authenticity. It’s built from real relationships, real gratitude, and real-life imperfections — the kind of truth Louisiana songwriters have always been known for capturing. Why This Matters for LouisianaCountry music For Louisiana Country Music fans, this moment is bigger than one song. Benjy Davis  proves that our region’s songwriters aren’t just part of the conversation — they’re helping shape  the next generation of country music. His success shows how a voice rooted in Louisiana storytelling can find its way into the heart of Nashville and still carry the soul of home. Because when you listen to “The Painter,”  you don’t just hear Cody Johnson — you hear a piece of Louisiana woven into every line. Check out other songs Benjy has written — here ! Follow Benjy Davis on Spotify, where he releases his own music: We’re keeping an eye on Benjy Davis and the next generation of Louisiana songwriters making waves in Nashville. Want more? Keep up with our monthly Writer Spotlight series at louisianacountrymusic.com and subscribe to our newsletter!