Today, Iowa-born and Nashville-based singer-songwriter Hailey Whitters released her moving new single, “Casseroles.” The track, her first major release in nearly two years, is available now via Pigasus Records / Big Loud Records / Songs & Daughters. Written by Whitters’ close collaborators Hillary Lindsey, Tom Douglas, and James Slater, “Casseroles” masterfully balances the raw pain of loss with a message of hope and resilience.
The Inspiration Behind “Casseroles”
In discussing the new single, Whitters shared her deep connection to the song:
“I was sent this record from three of my favorite collaborators who’ve written many songs that have defined the foundation of my appreciation for modern country music—Hillary Lindsey, Tom Douglas, and James Slater. During my first listen, I was absolutely floored. I lost my brother suddenly thirteen years ago, and from that moment on, my life was changed forever. I particularly remember everyone bringing loads of food and casseroles over and how I couldn’t eat for days because I was so distraught. Remembering that moment was what made this song hit so heavy for me. What happens when the casseroles stop coming and everyone has moved on, but it feels like you never will? As heavy and somber as the lyric and melody is, I also think there’s hope in the message and pray that it lands between ears that need to hear it.”
Listen Now and Watch the Lyric Video
Building on a Celebrated Career
“Casseroles” is Whitters’ first release since her acclaimed 2023 EP I’m In Love, which garnered praise from American Songwriter, Billboard, and Stereogum. The title track was described as “an expertly constructed bit of music,” with Stereogum noting, “Whitters can tell a story, but on this one, she tells a feeling.”
In 2023, Whitters’ career milestones included a nomination for CMA’s New Artist of the Year and winning ACM’s New Female Artist of the Year. Her Platinum-certified hit “Everything She Ain’t” became her first top 20 single at country radio and her debut on the Billboard Hot 100. That year, she also performed the track on Jimmy Kimmel Live!, The Kelly Clarkson Show, and the 58th Academy of Country Music Awards.
Recent Collaborations and Upcoming Performances
Whitters recently collaborated with Max McNown, Evan Honer, and Brooks & Dunn, further showcasing her versatility as a songwriter and performer. In November, she had a full-circle moment supporting Alan Jackson on his final 2024 tour date in Salt Lake City, a special performance considering she co-wrote Jackson’s 2017 single “The Older I Get.” Whitters ended the year with two sold-out shows at her hometown honky-tonk, DanceMor Ballroom, in Swisher, Iowa.
Looking ahead, Whitters will perform at the inaugural Sand in My Boots festival on May 16 in Gulf Shores, Alabama, and at the Under the Big Sky Music Festival from July 18 to 20 in Whitefish, Montana.
About Hailey Whitters
Hailey Whitters is a GRAMMY-nominated, Platinum-selling artist from Shueyville, Iowa, now based in Nashville. In addition to her ACM and CMA accolades, Whitters has toured with major acts like Luke Combs, Shania Twain, and Eric Church, while gracing the stages of Coachella, Bonnaroo, and C2C. Known for her storytelling prowess, she’s penned songs for legends like Alan Jackson, Little Big Town, and Martina McBride. Her breakthrough album Raised was named Rolling Stone’s No. 1 country album of the year, solidifying her place as one of modern country’s brightest stars.
Don’t miss Hailey Whitters’ latest single, “Casseroles,” a song that’s as heartfelt as it is healing.
