Waylon Hanel is only 23 years old, but his voice already carries the weight of a man who has lived through a lifetime of heartache and redemption. Today, The American Beat is proud to exclusively premiere the lyric video for his brand-new single, “Red Bricks” — an aching ballad about letting go, written by some of Nashville’s most seasoned hitmakers.
The Michigan-born neo-traditionalist calls the track “one of the best written songs I have ever heard in my life.” Written by Dave Gibson (Alabama, Tanya Tucker), Peter Sallis (Keb’ Mo’, Ronnie Dunn), and Brian White (Trace Adkins, Jason Aldean), the song transforms deep wound of heartbreak into an emotional country ballad. Hanel cut the track in just one take at Dark Horse Recording Studio in Franklin, co-producing it alongside Dave Hagen, whose credits include Reba McEntire and Carrie Underwood.
“This is literally one of the best written songs I have ever heard in my life!" Hanel said. "I can’t believe the song's writer Dave Gibson had been keeping all that emotion inside him for so long. It's raw and genuine talent to take one of life's tragedies and turn it into something so beautiful!"
“Red Bricks” officially drops everywhere tomorrow, September 5, via CDX Records. But fans can watch the lyric video right now, exclusively on The American Beat.
Hanel has quickly built a reputation as one of the brightest young voices in country music. With a sound that blends outlaw grit, bluesy undertones, and a straight-ahead honesty, he’s earned opening slots for legends like Trace Adkins, Travis Tritt, and Ashley McBryde. Named after his hero Waylon Jennings, Hanel is forging his own path with a throwback style that feels both vintage and fresh.
With “Red Bricks,” he proves once again why country music purists and newcomers alike are paying attention.
Enjoy the video and get out the tissues because this one is a tear-jerker!
