A fresh voice is taking on the country music scene by storm; and his name is Hunter Hayes. The Louisiana native may be easy to write off as a countrified Justin Bieber, but don’t let his baby face fool you.

Hayes’ deep southern vocal styling has often been compared to Gary LeVox’s of Rascal Flatts; although his musical talents don’t stop with his voice. The young artists talents extend to a large array of instruments including bass, guitar, drums, piano, and more.

Hayes released his self titled album in the fall of 2011. The album opens with his hit single “Storm Warning” which debuted at number 60 on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs the week it released. The album features upbeat melodies like “Somebody’s Heartbreak” to personal ballads like “Rainy Season”, all of which he has had a hand in writing.

Hunter Hayes kicked off his musical career at a young age, earning himself an impressive resume. When Hayes was just four years of age, he performed “Jambalaya” with Hank Williams Jr. The musical protege also was fortunate enough to play with June and Johnny Cash, and perform for President Clinton.

More recently Hayes has opened for ten dates of Taylor Swift’s Speak Now World Tour, collaborated with Victoria Justice on a cover of “Almost Paradise” for the film Footloose, and co-written songs for Rascal Flatts and Montgomery Gentry.

This talented southern musician is definitely one to keep on your radar this upcoming year.