Singer Walker Hayes teetered on the brink of self-destruction following the funeral of his child
In an emotional and honest interview, country singer Walker Hayes shared his personal struggle with alcoholism and the journey that led to his sobriety. The father of seven, who works as an entertainment production assistant for our website Digital, found inspiration for his latest album, "Sober Thoughts," in his battle with addiction and the emotional turmoil that followed the death of his daughter, Oakleigh, during childbirth in June 2018.
Upon arriving home after his daughter's funeral, Hayes had a change of heart when he saw his wife, Laney, sitting alone in their house. The sight of his wife and the realization of the difficult situation he was about to put her in made him reconsider his actions. Hayes recalled that before getting out of the car, he realized he didn't have his wallet with him and ended up driving back home. He almost went to a bar called 55 South to self-destruct, but the absence of his wallet and the sight of his wife alone in their home on that devastating day made him reconsider his actions.
The challenging period was a turning point for Hayes, who had been sober for two and a half years. He felt the need for redemption from himself and found strength in his faith, family, and music. In an interview on "Today with Hoda and Jenna," Hayes shared insights about his sobriety and the impact of this tragedy on his life. He discussed how that near relapse moment and his reflections on family and faith fueled his resolve to stay sober.
Hayes described how he woke up one day realizing that continuing to drink could seriously damage his health, motivating him to commit fully to sobriety. He emphasized the freedom and clarity sobriety gave him, including regaining self-confidence and energy. Writing songs about his journey was a way for him to help others facing addiction feel less alone.
The album "Sober Thoughts," released in 2024, is a direct outgrowth of both Hayes' long-term fight with alcoholism and the intense emotional challenge after his daughter's death. The songs openly explore his battle with alcohol addiction and the journey to sobriety. Hayes continues to write one song a week about his "freedom from addiction."
In addition to his music, Hayes has made a commitment to staying healthy and active. He goes to the gym regularly in sobriety and feels rejuvenated, like he's 17 years old. Hayes' public discussions, such as on "Today with Hoda and Jenna" and the 'K-Love Morning Show,' focus on the realities of addiction, the critical moments that threatened his sobriety, and the hope and strength he found through faith, family, and music.
Celebrities like Walker Hayes, anchored by their struggles and victories, use their platform to shed light on diverse and often personal aspects of life, such as health and addiction. In discussing his path to sobriety, Hayes also highlights the profound impact of music on his journey, offering a message of hope and redemption to those battling alcoholism.
