Scotty Hasting

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.

In classic Nashville fashion, a chance encounter with the son of Black River Entertainment's President and CEO, Gordon Kerr, brought him into the sights of the independent label. Despite only first picking up a guitar in 2020, Hasting immediately caught the attention of renowned hit songwriter, producer, and Black River's Vice President of A&R Doug Johnson, who took the promising country artist under his wing. Hasting signed a record deal with Black River late in 2023 and released his first song “How Do You Choose” that November.

The Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky native's EP title track “I’m America” was released February 9, 2024. After hearing the song, written by Wade Kirby and Phil O'Donnell, who co-produced the track with Doug Johnson, Hasting knew he had to record it. "Every single line of this song is why I decided to enlist in the Army," says Hasting. "The moment I heard it, I fell in love with it and knew I wanted to record it. 'I'm America' celebrates ALL of the things and people that make this country beautiful and indivisible." With his debut EP, I’m America, released in May 2024, Hasting looks towards a bright future in country music.

Hasting 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.

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" (released 3/7) 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.

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."

Now on a mission to help anyone struggling with loss or their mental health find solace through his music, Hasting strives to connect with his listeners by producing music that doesn't need an explanation. “I want to show people that it may be bad now, but I promise you it's going to get better." Having found his escape from PTSD through archery and music, Scotty devotes his time and talents to several organizations, including Creativets, Guitars 4 Vets, and more to offer other veterans the same tranquility.