Artist Information
"For me, the demons of PTSD knock the loudest when it's quiet. When I have a guitar in my hands, I find peace," says songwriter, artist, and Army Veteran Scotty Hasting. Narrowly escaping death, Hasting is now on a mission to help anyone struggling with loss or mental health find solace through his music. His follow-up to the patriotic and heartfelt debut EP I'm America, Purple Heart recipient and Black River artist Scotty Hasting's lighthearted "Pro Beer," out now, will surely be a summer favorite. Written by Jimi Bell, Josh Jenkins, and Bryan Simpson, Hasting loved the tune upon first listen. "It's all about having a good time and not taking ourselves too seriously," shared Hasting. In the accompanying music visualizer, Hasting raises a red Solo cup in a nod to the late Country music legend Toby Keith. In support of the new music this year, Scotty continues to play shows nationwide and partner with great organizations, including Pen Fed Foundation, CreatiVets, Guitars 4 Vets, and Operation Encore. Despite only first picking up a guitar in 2020, the Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky native signed to Black River at the end of 2023 and has since released "Til The Last Shot's Fired" with Lee Brice and Dolly Parton (10/18), in addition to his debut EP, I'm America (5/3), featuring his debut single on Black River, "How Do You Choose," and more. The "promising, impactful debut" (Billboard) details Hasting's first visit to best friend Adam Hamilton's tombstone following his death. Having found his escape from PTSD through archery and music, the "'I’m America' hitmaker" (People Magazine) has already opened for incredible artists, including Lee Brice, Dave Grohl, Chris Janson, Jelly Roll, Craig Morgan, Parmalee, Tanya Tucker, and more. In 2024, Hasting partnered with Operation Democracy and represented the U.S. with multiple performances in Normandy, France, during a week-long celebration commemorating the 80th anniversary of D-Day (exclusive People photo diary HERE) before stepping into the coveted Circle for his Grand Ole Opry debut (7/28) during the Opry's celebration of 30 years of "Forrest Gump." In April of 2011, the former Army Infantryman with the 1st Infantry Division 4th Squadron 4th Cavalry was left fighting for his life, flying out of Afghanistan on a medivac after being shot ten times.
