Waylon Hanel Releases 3rd Studio Album: When Waylon Came To Nashville

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – December 1, 2025 – Independent country singer-songwriter and Michigan native Waylon Hanel has released his highly anticipated 3rd studio album, When Waylon Came To Nashville, a modern sonic tribute to the classic era of outlaw country. The album is available now on all major streaming platforms and digital stores via CDX Records.

About the Album

When Waylon Came To Nashville delivers a mix of feel-good honky-tonk sing-alongs and soul-stirring ballads, capturing the essence of traditional outlaw country while introducing Hanel’s own modern edge. The 23-year-old self-taught musician collaborated with acclaimed producer Dave Hagen (Reba McEntire, Carrie Underwood, Keb’ Mo’) at Dark Horse Recording Studio to create a record that is both vintage and fresh.

The album features songs written by country legends Billy Don Burns, Dave Gibson, Bernie Nelson, and Hanel himself. Highlights include:

“Talk About Crazy” (Billy Don Burns)

“Keith Whitley Blue” (Billy Don Burns)

“When Waylon Came To Nashville” (Billy Don Burns)

“Red Bricks” (Dave Gibson, Peter Sallis, Brian White)

“Thinkin’ About Drinkin’” (Waylon Hanel)

“Greyhound” (Bernie Nelson, Tommy Connors, Mark McGuinn)

“Tow Truck Driver” (Bernie Nelson, Andrew Brockdorf)

“My Name” (Waylon Hanel)

Vinyl Release & Music Videos

Hanel pre-released the album on vinyl during his hometown SOLD OUT album release party at Uptown North, Frankenmuth on November 26, 2025. Fans can also look forward to upcoming music videos for “Tow Truck Driver” and “When Waylon Came To Nashville”, set to release in early 2026.

Media Highlights

ICYMI: Waylon discusses his Josie Music Award win and the new album on WNEM-TV.

“A student, champion, and torch bearer for all the old Outlaw greats…” – Trigger, Saving Country Music

Upcoming Shows

Dec. 6 – Montrose Pub / Montrose, MI

Dec. 11 – The Machine Shop (w/ Creed Fisher) / Flint, MI

Dec. 26 & 28 – Handlebar J / Scottsdale, AZ

Follow Waylon for the latest tour updates on BandsInTown.

About Waylon Hanel

Waylon Hanel is a self-taught country artist known for his textured vocals, vivid storytelling, and authentic outlaw country sound. Hanel has opened for artists including Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, Ashley McBryde, Chris Cagle, Walker Hayes, Josh Turner, and more. His recordings blend traditional outlaw country, blues, and southern rock, appealing to both longtime country fans and new listeners alike.

Listen & Stream

Stream / Download: jwamedia.com/waylon-hanel

Available on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, Rumble, Clouthub, and Bitchute

Follow Waylon Hanel

Booking & Management: Heidi Hanel | contact@waylonhanel.com

Publicity & PR: Jason W. Ashcraft | jwa@jwamedia.com

Label Contact: Joe Kelly | joe@cdxnashville.com