Alumna Quinn Hailey has taken her songwriting and talent as a musician far beyond Redwood’s music program, landing in Nashville, Tennessee, to chase her dreams of becoming a full-time songwriter. Hailey currently attends Belmont University as a songwriting and music business student, hoping to make her mark in the country music industry.
“I’ve known from a very young age that this is the only thing I’ve ever wanted to do; I’ve never had a plan B,” Hailey said.
She grew up in Novato and attended Novato High School for her freshman and sophomore years before she transferred to Redwood. Shortly after arriving, Hailey took advantage of the school’s remarkable music program, which was led by recently retired Advanced Performance Workshop (APW) music teacher John Mattern. Hailey credits the start of her music journey to Mattern.
“He always made me feel like I was meant to [be a musician],” Hailey said. “[Mr. Mattern] was super inspiring.”
Currently living in Nashville, Hailey has tuned into the experiences and country music environment presented in the town.
“[Nashville is] such a unique town [and] people welcome you with open arms,” Hailey said.
On April 4, Hailey released her debut single, “Ain’t What Jesus Would Do,” which she wrote with friends during a retreat in the Smoky Mountains. The song addresses people who portray themselves one way, as faithful Christians, but then act entirely differently — an idea that Hailey believes many people can relate to.
“[Lots of people have] dated someone who turned out not to be who they said they were,” Hailey said.
Hailey ensured that her song’s lyrics reflected a meaningful idea while still being fun and entertaining. Belmont University alum and close friend Zoe Walega met Hailey through mutual friends, and they have been close ever since.
“[Hailey] is the most encouraging, hardworking, talented girl I know,” Walega said. “Her voice is breathtaking.”
Walega also praises Hailey’s deep dedication to her singing and songwriting.
“She has had the same work ethic my [entirety of] knowing her, and I truly believe [Hailey] will do anything she sets her mind to,” Walega said.
Looking towards the future, Hailey plans to release three more songs, one this summer and the other two in the fall.
Although she didn’t know what to expect in her journey to Nashville, Hailey embraced the challenges and took advantage of the opportunities Nashville has to offer.
“[Some] say [people only live in Nashville for] ten years [and] I’m coming up on year five. [I’ve learned that] you get what you put into it,” Hailey said.
Hailey’s biggest advice to Redwood’s aspiring musicians is to take advantage of the opportunities presented by Redwood’s music program and never let go of your dreams, no matter how far away they may seem.
“Even if it’s terrifying, go for it,” Hailey said. “If your song touches [even] just one person, [it’s] the best feeling in the world.”
