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A Salute to Don Hayes
Singer-songwriter Don Hayes was born on November 18, 1967 in Redlands, California. He began singing in Apple Valley, California in Jr. High, where his talent was first brought to public attention by his music teacher. He then attended Apple Valley Senior High, and became a member of the school choir from 1984-1986. He also performed on a cruise ship, SS Azure Seas, in 1985. In 1987 he entered the talent show on TNN, "You Can Be a Star." He won the weekly competition, which aired sixteen times on national television.
Don moved to Nashville in 1989, and worked at Opryland for a few years with the Country Music USA Show, along with other talent that came out of that group, such as Chelly Wright, Ken Mellons, Dean Sams, Rette Atkins, Skip Ewing and others. Don has appeared solo on the Opry. Being invited by Porter Wagner to debut on the Grand Ole Opry was a high honor. He often spoke of working with Minnie Pearl, Roy Acuff, Lee Greenwood, Brenda Lee, Roy Clark, Louise Mandrell, and Little Jimmy Dickens.
Don returned to California where he enjoyed the pride of his life, daughter Brittany Marie Hays. He continued his career through his writing and demo work, recording several sides for Lawton Jiles at Jiles-Beam Studios in Upland, California. He also did the back-up singing on Lawton's latest CD. He was in high demand as a demo singer, and was listening to some offers for a recording career.
Don Hays lost his life in an auto accident in Apple Valley, California on March 1, 2006. Don will be missed by his family, friends, fans, and all of the professional folks he ever worked with. Don leaves his catalog of work. His heirs have given permission to Jiles-Beam Music Publishing to promote his music.
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