HARDY has returned to his country roots, and fans can’t get enough! The singer, born Michael Wilson Hardy, just released his latest EP, COUNTRY!, on May 2, showcasing five brand-new songs that mark his return to the genre.

Blending heartfelt storytelling with the rock-infused sound he’s known for, HARDY doesn’t miss a beat. The new work is living proof of that, as he uses all aspects of music to showcase his raw talent. Hot on the heels of his official debut at the Grand Ole Opry on April 29, he’s making it clear that he’s quickly solidifying his place in the country music world.

A Deep Dive into ‘COUNTRY!’

The COUNTRY! EP showcases HARDY’s ability to intertwine traditional country themes with modern musical elements. The tracklist includes:

‘Buck on the Wall’
This opening track serves as a tribute to HARDY’s late grandfather. The artist spoke about the song during his Opry performance, saying it was an ode to his grandfather, who “used to dig in his nightstand drawer to find a spare quarter or a pocketknife or something I could slip away with. And the night he died, I actually found his watch. So, I’m wearing that tonight in honor of him.” The song reflects on the significance of hunting traditions and the bonds formed through them.

‘Car That Drove You Away’
The poignant ballad of the group. In the new song, HARDY imagines himself as various objects to prevent a loved one from leaving. The song’s stripped-down melody and evocative lyrics delve into themes of regret and longing, all while giving the listener jitters and goosebumps from how deeply it hits home.

‘Girl with a Gun’
This track offers a fresh take on the classic cheating song trope. The country song dives into a haunting melody that builds tension and showcases HARDY’s storytelling prowess. What seems like a love letter to his partner turns into a cautionary tale as he sings,

“There’s been guys that ran around and found out / That ain’t nothing but a headstone now / Yeah, I couldn’t ‘cause I love you and I wouldn’t ‘cause I ain’t that dumb / To cheat on a girl with a gun.”

‘Luckiest Man Alive’
An upbeat tune that celebrates the joy of life and love. Throughout the song, HARDY emphasizes gratitude and contentment when it comes to the simple pleasures of life. The country star reflects on his journey as an artist and how lucky he is to be alive and well despite the hardships and obstacles life has thrown his way. Praying on humbleness and devotion to life, he sings, “I got it pretty good for a good ole boy.”

‘Favorite Country Song’
Closing the EP, this song juxtaposes the sounds of nature with traditional country music, suggesting that the authentic experiences of rural life are the true “favorite country songs.” He pays tribute to the tracks that shaped him, honoring country roots, classic sounds, and God.

The Road Ahead

Sharing the news on Instagram, the singer told his fans, “This music is a nod to my roots and the cover art is a real newspaper clipping taken from @theneshobademocrat over 20 years ago. Go give the new EP a listen wherever you stream music 🦌.”

Looking ahead, the “Wait In The Truck” singer is set to embark on the Jim Bob World Tour. Fans can expect to see performances across the United States and international stops with Koe Wetzel, Stephen Wilson Jr., McCoy Moore, and Sikarus.

With the release of COUNTRY! and his Grand Ole Opry debut, HARDY reaffirms his commitment to the core values of country music. The singer has been very open when it comes to the importance of storytelling and authenticity when it comes to growth, as well as emotional resonance. This EP not only showcases his versatility as an artist, but also his dedication to honoring the traditions that have shaped his musical journey.