HAILEY VERHAALEN

                                                              "My Roots Are Showin'" 

                                                               Independent Release

Oregon City, OR native Hailey Verhaalen invites her fans and listeners into her mind and heart with the latest release from her ever-growing musical catalogue.

“My Roots Are Showin’,” her second release of the year and first since May, is available digitally and on all streaming platforms now.

Since her introduction to the national audience during her appearance on “American Idol” and making the move from Oregon to Nashville, TN, Hailey has incorporated her storytelling ability with her musical talent, drawing inspiration from her idols, from Dolly Parton to Miranda Lamber to Reba. 

In just a short time on the country music songwriting circuit, she has made name for herself as one of the bright young sought-after writers in the biz, penning tunes for the likes of Whitney Miller and The Boondock Boys, among others.  But shouldn’t be lost is her ability as a singer and performer as well, something that, at times, she forgets herself…which was the case during the session that would become the origination of “My Roots Are Showin’.”

“I was at a point in my songwriting where I was focusing on writing for other people,” she shared.  “As we started coming up with lines, it felt more and more like it was being Taylor made for me.”

As the songwriting session continued, which included co-writer Kelly Seidel, it became apparent that this was a song that needed to be personal to Hailey, and so the final product is a vulnerably honest account of who she is as a person and as an artist.

Verhaalen’s vocals are masterful on this tune, displaying her raw ability while also showcasing her control, power, and flexibility as the melody dips and dives through the well-constructed verses and chorus.  This is a songwriter’s song, paying homage and respect to every aspect and element that makes up a high-quality release, from the lyrics to the arrangement to the vocals, and everything in between. 

Since her arrival in Music City, Hailey has been playing the songwriters rounds, writing and singing around town, and making a name for herself among peers, critics and fans based ultimately, and now exclusively, on her undeniable musical talent.  The experience she’s gained in a short amount of time continues to shine through with every new tune she releases, and the excitement and momentum behind this talented songstress continues to build throughout Nashville and beyond.

“My Roots Are Showin’” follows “Leaving ‘Em In My Twenties,” a vulnerable and honest ode to a decade of trials and triumphs, as well as “Words In My Mouth,” a tribute to her then future husband that was released the day before their wedding date.

Staying true to the reflection in her songwriting, Hailey does continuously return to her roots, playing gigs in her home state of Oregon while also remaining a mainstay on the Music City scene. 

(Review Written By: Chad Carlson)