Last night, Hunter Hayes performed tracks from his newest album, The 21 Project, along with many of his previous hit songs.
The live performance included Hunter’s hit ballad, “Wanted,” and an emotional rendition of his song “Flashlight,” live on the Honda Stage at the iHeartRadio Theater in Los Angeles.
The event included an intimate Q&A with host Cody Alan discussing Hunter’s new album, which is to be released on November 6. The event broadcasted across iHeartMedia Country radio stations nationwide, and streamed live for fans on the iHeartMedia Country radio station websites as well as at iHeartRadio.com/HondaStage.
Highlights from the evening included:
- Hunter spoke about the making of The 21 Project. He didn’t want it to be like a regular album, he wanted it to be like a dance. The 21 Project is an art project that is supposed to just be fun, and he had a blast working on it. It includes studio, acoustic, and live versions of the same seven songs. He is also very proud of his #1 hit, “Wanted.” Then he talked about how special it is seeing YouTube videos of people using the song for marriage proposals.
- Hunter talked about the love in his life which is his puppy dog Cole. Apparently the jangling of his collar inspired the percussion in The 21 Project. Road life with the puppy is hilarious — he’s mellow and just wants to hang out on the couch.
- Hunter spoke about a new song called “Saint or Sinner” from The 21 Project. He said that even with all of your flaws, somebody will still see something good in you, and we’re all lucky to find those people who see that.
- Hunter’s favorite coffee flavor is “just four shots of espresso,” or pumpkin spice. A Pumpkin Spice Latte was also the first drink he ever ordered at Starbucks.
- Hunter asked for requests from the audience and then accepted a request for “Somebody’s Heartbreak.” He then introduced all of the musicians in his band. The last of which might have to leave at any minute because he is expecting his second child… So if he runs off the stage, it’s not what it looks like.
- Hunter made tons of jokes, asking people if they want to leave, if they’re sure they can stay for a few more songs, saying that he doesn’t want them to get stuck in traffic–the audience loved it and cheered loudly for more music.
- Hunter spoke about how it’s in the darkest moments in your life that you find yourself, and find the truth and good people in your life that help you through it all. And that’s why he decided to play “Flashlight” because it’s such a special song to him.
- Before his last song he thanked the crowd for coming and said he was so thankful for their energy and for making this experience so much fun, especially when it can be nerve-wracking with the cameras.
- After the show, Hunter walked back and forth giving all of the front-row fans high fives.
Check out photos from the event, below.