Emerging country artist Will Morton has officially made his debut with the release of his first single, “Good Ol’ Boys Don’t Cry”. Available now on all streaming platforms, the song delivers a deeply personal message about breaking free from traditional expectations of masculinity and embracing emotional vulnerability.
A Song About Strength in Vulnerability
Morton, who co-wrote the track with Mark McKee and Chris Ayer, shares that “Good Ol’ Boys Don’t Cry” was inspired by his own life experiences—particularly the emotions he felt after becoming a father.
“Good Ol’ Boys Don’t Cry’ came from being raised that men have to be tough and always carry the weight of the world,” says Morton. “After the birth of my son and seeing the innocence in his eyes and the pure heart he wears on his sleeve, I find myself getting emotional over the smallest things he does or changes in his life. This song is letting him know to not be ashamed. It’s okay to cry.”
Produced by Mark McKee, the track combines modern country instrumentation with raw, heartfelt lyrics, offering a powerful reminder that strength is found in honesty and self-expression.
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The Journey to Country Music
Born and raised in Jacksonville, North Carolina, Morton’s love for country music began in childhood, sitting beside his grandparents as they tuned in to Hee Haw and the Grand Ole Opry. His grandmother, affectionately known as “Gaga,” clapped along to country legends like Buck Owens and Little Jimmy Dickens, while his grandfather, “Pop,” whistled effortlessly to classic country melodies.
Despite his deep-rooted passion for country storytelling, Morton’s musical path took a detour into the rock and metal world. As a skilled multi-instrumentalist, he mastered both guitar and drums, eventually touring as the drummer for the metal band Foundry, where he shared the stage with heavy-hitting acts like In This Moment. Though he thrived in the rock scene, his heart always pulled him back to country music—a genre where he could share his personal stories in the most authentic way.
A Story of Redemption and New Beginnings
Morton’s music is deeply personal, drawing from real-life struggles and triumphs. His upcoming debut album, The Long Way, is a twelve-song collection that blends classic country storytelling with modern influences from pop and Americana. Many of the songs are shaped by his journey of overcoming addiction, navigating heartbreak, and finding redemption.
In October 2013, just three months after getting married, Morton made the life-changing decision to get sober—a commitment that has since defined both his personal and musical journey. This theme of perseverance and growth is woven throughout The Long Way, making it an album that promises to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
Bringing His Story to the Stage
Morton’s live performances capture the highs and lows of life, delivering an experience that resonates with fans from all walks of life. Whether performing stripped-down acoustic ballads or high-energy, rock-infused tracks, his goal remains the same: to create music that inspires and uplifts.With “Good Ol’ Boys Don’t Cry”, Will Morton makes a bold first impression, proving that country music is at its best when it’s honest, heartfelt, and unafraid to challenge the norm.
