Michaels grew up in rock bands and also played in a country duo with his father. He often found himself liking hard rock and traditional country music at the same time. As Michael puts it, “I’ve been doing this my whole life and never really thought about doing anything else. I’m super excited to be doing it with Shannon. Everything has started falling into place.”
Throughout our interview, Haley and Michael’s would complete each other’s sentences. With one gentle look, the other knew exactly what words were needed to express an idea. It was a magical thing to be around. We could literally feel how much they respected each other as artists and as people.
The dynamic duo teamed up in 2012, but made it clear that they both were in a band before they were in a relationship. They were singing together first. As Michaels puts it, “I had ulterior motives, but we were technically making music first”. When asked about how they both were introduced, they both mentioned the magic happened by way of a guitar player that worked with each of the artists individually.
When asked about which pinnacle moment has helped fuel their career, Hayley’s said, “When our hometown radio station KRTY played our song on the radio. [It] felt really good. They weren’t doing it just to be nice. They actually connected to the music.” In addition to this epic moment, Michael’s added in that, “Hoda from the Today Show invited us on in September. We performed our wedding song ‘Giving it all to you’.”
Here’s a snap shot of the Haley & Michaels on the Today show.
Had a blast during our @todayshow performance in September! Hope to go back soon 😉 #ThrowbackThursday @hodakotb @carsondaly
This fairy tale story has not always been so easy for the duo. As with any artists, the two have faced their share of challenges. Both artists admitted that being able to translate their sound/vision onto recorded music can be a painful process. That being said, both feel that they have hit their stride with their latest EP.
Switching gears, we wanted to talk men’s fashion with the music stars. When asked about men’s style, Haleys said, “I like it when guys aren’t trying so hard.” We could not agree more with the songwriter. Style should be effortless.
We asked Michaels what is one of his favorite items he owns and he quickly replied with, “I have a black Diesel t-shirt”.
Haley playfully interrupted with, “You have just one?!”
M: That’s where I was heading. It’s all black. The blue jeans are a stretch, but everything else is all black. I have this one-diesel shirt and I have about 15 of them. I think I’ve worn it on national TV and probably to bed. I also collect a lot of shirts from concerts. Anytime I go somewhere meaningful, I have to have the shirt. Or sports. I have lots.
Here’s a peak into Michael’s shirt collection
As we chatted with the talented musicians, it was clear that they had to travel often, so we figured they might have some expertise with packing.
MAN: What do you pack when traveling on tour?
H: Shoes are a big issue for me. They always take up the most space. I try to layout every daily outfit and make sure I edit my suitcase.
M: I say pack it all and own it! Move into the hotel room. I pack more stuff than she does. I think that you never know what will come up. I iron all my clothes and hang them in the closet. I find it grounding.
As we learned about their packing habits, we wondered if being in Country music stifled personal style in any way.
MAN: Do you feel like country music, keeps you in a box when it comes to both your styles?
H: I feel like there’s a new freedom that goes hand in hand with the music. I think it’s an exciting time. I think our music is on the more progressive side of things. I’m curious to learn how to stretch my style even further.
M: I agree. I feel that Country has gotten broad and accepting. For us it’s exciting. We grew up with country and rock. We’re finding that it’s all accepted now. It’s exciting.
This dynamic duo was in New York City for only a couple of days to promote their latest single. We were beyond fortunate to land this meeting and to learn about these latest projects.
MAN: Your current hit is called “Drinking About You”. Tell us about that.
H: We love writing songs about all aspects of relationships. We don’t want to write love songs just because we’re married. We wanted something with a little edge. Drinking naturally came to mind.
M: I think like Shannon said, it’s key for us to sing about all aspects of relationships.
H: One of our favorite things about Country music is the lyrics. Some of my favorite songs always have a really cool twist on things. Many of my music inspirations were clever with their lyrics.
MAN: We’ve been recently helping today’s man by giving him a variety of drink ideas to help switch things up a bit during summer. What are your favorite drinks to sip on while “drinking about you”?
H: I would say wine. Or if I’m out, vodka soda.
M: Drinking Jack of course! Also, a love for Crown and Maple. I also really like Cap Cods. I’ve never said that in an interview, so I’m really opening up here.
MAN: We’re all about giving our readers an edge. What can you tell us about any upcoming projects or exclusive scoop.
M: We’re so excited about the new music coming out. The new single Drinking about You. We’re going to be setting up a bunch of tour dates in the fall. A lot of what we do right now is business meetings. There will be a ton of new info and people added to the team.
Be sure to catch the latest from this music sensation by following them on their adventures on Instagram and Facebook. Be sure to check out their latest hit “Drinking About You” on Spotify by clicking here.