Country Star Walker Hayes: Inspiring Others Through Recovery

Despite the drinking culture associated with country music, Walker Hayes shares his journey to sobriety and encourages others to find an alternative path.

Country music star Walker Hayes has been open about his struggles with alcoholism and his subsequent journey to sobriety. Now, eight years sober, Hayes is using his platform to inspire others who are dealing with addiction.

"A big, big mission statement of mine is just recovery. I want to help anyone who is lonely and daunted by that idea," Hayes told Fox News Digital.

Hayes believes that his own story can provide hope for others who are struggling. He often writes about his recovery experiences in his music, as a means of maintaining his sobriety and encouraging others.

Despite acknowledging the drinking culture often associated with country music, Hayes emphasizes there is an alternative path.

"I am in an industry that can often condone that lifestyle," he said. "It's about drinking. And so I'm not trying to combat it or battle it or rid country music of that, but I also want to show people and just normal guys like me that there is an alternative."

Hayes also recognizes that addressing substance abuse issues can be challenging.

"And we can address when we have a problem," Hayes added. "And, honestly, our weakness can be our strength, you know? And that's OK."

In addition to his music, Hayes has partnered with companies that align with his mission of promoting recovery. Recently, he collaborated with Athletic Brewing Company to release a nonalcoholic beer.

"We dropped a nonalcoholic beer, which gives you that experience," he said. "If you love the taste of beer, it's there. But obviously, no hangover and no bad decisions."

Hayes also credits his family for their unwavering support throughout his journey. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Laney, since 2004, and they have six children together.

"I think my worst enemy — along the whole road — was sadly myself," he said. "But I did a great job pointing some fingers. It was always the bad coach. It was always the bad boss. It was always my parents. It was always this circumstance."

Hayes hopes that his music and his personal experiences will inspire others to overcome their own struggles.

"I'd be like, 'Hey, man, you might need to surrender. You know, you might not need to bark so hard," Hayes said.

"I do know that that was an overcorrection from some things growing up," he continued. "But I think I would tell my younger self to chill out a little bit and just focus on the things that I think the world sees me now trying to focus on."

Hayes' message resonates with many who have faced similar challenges. He has amassed a large social media following, where he often shares his family life and his personal struggles.

Hayes' commitment to his sobriety was shaken after the tragic loss of his baby daughter Oakleigh in 2018. However, he found solace and support in Alcoholics Anonymous.

"I remember going into that AA meeting," he said. "And the first dude that stood up, he was telling his story. And the first line he said was, ‘I was angry.’ And I was captivated. I was like, ‘Me, too,’ you know? And I didn't say anything. I didn't even meet anybody. I just went to that AA meeting and went home. But that AA meeting saved my life that night."

Hayes' story serves as a reminder that there is hope and support available for those struggling with addiction. Through his music, his social media presence, and his partnerships with recovery-focused companies, Hayes continues to inspire others to embrace a life of sobriety and well-being.