About Hayley McKay

Hayley McKay is a rising force in British country music, renowned for her soaring vocals, heartfelt storytelling, and a proud connection to her roots in the North East. Crowned UK Entertainer of the Year at the Hot Country TV Awards in Ireland, Hayley is captivating audiences worldwide with her powerful presence, winning International Single of the Year for “Wild West” at the ISSA Awards in Atlanta, USA, and Artist of the Year by NE Magazine. Elmore Magazine describes her as “the up-and-coming apple of the British music industry’s eye,” and her recent single “Adrenaline” only amplifies her irresistible sound with its passionate intensity and catchy, raw energy.

Hayley’s music career is grounded in her North East heritage, with recent standout performances including a sell-out show at Durham’s Gala Theatre and a main-stage appearance at the Hardwick Festival 10th Anniversary, sharing the lineup with stars like Sophie Ellis-Bextor and Becky Hill. Her natural connection with audiences is enhanced by her vocal range, often compared to icons like Eva Cassidy, Joni Mitchell, and LeAnn Rimes, which gracefully shifts from earthy and soulful to ethereal and angelic. Hayley’s performances at premier UK festivals, including Glastonbury (three times), C2C Festival at the O2 Arena in London, Latitude, Northern Kin, and The British Country Music Festival, demonstrate her ability to capture hearts on both intimate stages and the country’s biggest platforms.

As a dedicated and skilled songwriter, Hayley has co-written with Grammy-nominated Jan Buckingham in Nashville and shared the stage with legends such as Tom Jones, The Shires, Albert Lee, and Martha Reeves. Her international influence extends from the UK to the USA and Ireland, with music that has earned radio play on Absolute Radio, BBC Introducing, and Ireland’s RTE Radio 1. Twice featured on Ireland’s popular daytime Today Show, she’s also appeared on STV Scotland and London Live.

A Career of Growing Acclaim

Hayley’s music enjoys support from BBC Radio 2’s Paul Sexton, with her songs reaching a global audience on Emirates flights and in 600 Café Nero stores across the UK. “Thinking About Last Night” hit No. 1 on the Ignition Country Charts, was named one of Ireland’s top three singles, and reached Australia’s top ten Valley FM Indie Charts. Her single “Breathe,” born during the pandemic, found its way onto the award-winning short film Floppy Toast with Drippy Butter and continues to gain traction internationally.

Hayley’s musical journey began early, performing at nine in London’s West End, and took off with a grant from the Sunday for Sammy Foundation that funded her first EP. She went on to train at the Brighton Institute of Modern Music, sharing halls with the likes of Jess Glynne, and continued to connect deeply with her North East community, performing regularly at beloved venues like The Forum Music Studios in Darlington. Passionate about using music for well-being, she completed a virtual tour during the pandemic to support grassroots venues and, earlier this year, embarked on a U.S. tour with David Neil Crabtree, performing duets inspired by their travels, including a unique set during Texas’s Solar Eclipse.

What to Expect from Hayley McKay

Whether performing solo, as a duo, or with her full band, Hayley delivers a one-of-a-kind experience that blends British roots and Nashville soul. Catch her live and experience a night of irresistible country sound, storytelling, and the vibrant energy of the North East. Follow Hayley’s journey as she prepares for her 2025 album release – kickstarting with the epic singe ‘Adrenaline’ in January – a milestone in the career of one of the UK’s most promising country talents.