Michael Wilson Hardy, known professionally as HARDY, born September 13, 1990, is an American country rock singer and songwriter. Emerging from the Southern music scene, Hardy has made a significant impact in country and rock genres through his compelling songwriting and energetic performances.
Hardy’s career began with a focus on songwriting, where his contributions quickly gained recognition. He wrote chart-topping songs for prominent artists such as Florida Georgia Line (“Simple,” “Talk You Out of It”), Blake Shelton (“God’s Country,” “Hell Right”), and Chris Lane (“I Don’t Know About You”). His songwriting prowess was further demonstrated with Dallas Smith’s “Drop,” Jameson Rodgers’ debut single “Some Girls,” and others.
In 2018, Hardy released the EP This Ole Boy, which he promoted by touring with Morgan Wallen on the If I Know Me Tour. The EP laid the groundwork for his debut album, A Rock, released in September 2020. The album, featuring the single “One Beer,” showcased Hardy’s blend of traditional country and modern rock influences.
The following year, Hardy released the collaborative mixtape Hixtape, Vol. 1, which included contributions from 17 artists like Thomas Rhett, Keith Urban, and Morgan Wallen. This mixtape was a testament to his collaborative spirit and versatility within the country music landscape.
In 2021, Hardy further expanded his discography with Hixtape, Vol. 2, featuring artists such as Matt Stell, Jon Pardi, and Lainey Wilson. The same year, he joined Jason Aldean’s “Back in the Saddle” tour, reinforcing his presence as a dynamic live performer.
Hardy’s most recent project, The Mockingbird & the Crow, was released on January 20, 2023. The album is a concept piece split between traditional country and rock genres. The first half of the album features country tracks with lower-case stylized titles, while the second half transitions into rock and hard rock, marked by uppercase stylized titles. Notable singles from the album include “Truck Bed,” “Here Lies Country Music,” and the titular track “The Mockingbird & the Crow.” The album debuted at the top of the country music charts and features collaborations with Morgan Wallen, Lainey Wilson, and Jeremy McKinnon of A Day to Remember.
Hardy’s work has earned him significant accolades. He received his first CMA nomination in 2019 for Song of the Year for Blake Shelton’s “God’s Country.” In 2020, he was nominated for both Song of the Year and Songwriter of the Year at the Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards. The following year, he was nominated for New Male Artist, Songwriter of the Year, and Music Event of the Year. Hardy’s achievements culminated in 2022 when he won ACM’s Songwriter of the Year. At the 2023 ACA Awards, Hardy was recognized with three awards, including Best Visual Media of the Year and Musical Event of the Year for his collaboration with Lainey Wilson, as well as Artist-Songwriter of the Year.
Hardy’s unique blend of country and rock, along with his impactful songwriting, has solidified his place in modern country music. His ability to straddle genres while maintaining a strong sense of country authenticity has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
