The world of Southern Gospel music is rich with talented families, and among them shines The Mylon Hayes Family. Recently, we had the pleasure of sitting down with Mylon Hayes to delve into the story of his family, their music, and their ministry. Join us as we explore the heartwarming journey of this exceptional family, dedicated to spreading their faith and musical gifts.
A Family United in Faith and Song: The Mylon Hayes Family Story
Getting Started: A Calling and a Recording
Mylon Hayes, the patriarch of the family, shares the beginnings of their ministry. Based in Hudson, North Carolina, The Mylon Hayes Family is a full-time ministry comprising Mylon (Dad), Wendy (Mom), and their children, twin sons Conner and Bailey (now young adults), and daughter Kennedy (teenager). Mylon and Wendy felt a divine nudge towards family ministry several years before taking the plunge. About four and a half years prior to the original interview, a sense of urgency grew, fueled by what they perceived as God’s guidance through life’s circumstances.
Initially, their goal was modest. With Kennedy at just eight years old and the twins at twelve, they thought about creating a recording primarily to preserve their children’s voices at a young age. Encouraged and supported by Wendy’s parents, they embarked on this recording project, intending to share it with close family and friends.
However, their journey took an unexpected turn. Local performances garnered overwhelmingly positive responses, leading to more invitations and expanding their reach. The pivotal moment came when Susan Whisnant of the renowned Whisnants family heard their recording. She proposed sending their music to radio stations. Despite initial hesitation, unsure if stations would play songs featuring children’s voices, they agreed. To their surprise and immense joy, radio stations embraced their music, and their songs began charting. This unforeseen radio success propelled their ministry forward, opening doors to travel and share their music with wider audiences. Mylon fondly acknowledges Jeff and Susan Whisnant for their invaluable support and encouragement.
Embracing a Traditional Sound: Echoes of the Hayes Family Heritage
The Mylon Hayes Family’s sound resonates with the classic, heartwarming tones of traditional Southern Gospel, drawing comparisons to Mylon’s own family group, The Hayes Family. Mylon addresses this stylistic connection, stating that while they didn’t consciously aim to replicate The Hayes Family sound, their roots and influences naturally shine through. Notably, they intentionally avoid performing Hayes Family songs to forge their own identity.
The evolution of their sound is also a natural progression. As the twin sons’ voices matured through adolescence, their musical texture has subtly shifted. However, their deep affection for convention-style gospel music and the undeniable influence of The Hayes Family heritage inevitably contribute to sonic similarities. Mylon emphasizes that they are simply creating the music that flows from within them, rooted in their upbringing and musical DNA. They are proud to carry forward the “convention sound” as part of their repertoire, while also exploring diverse styles, as exemplified in their radio release, “One More Opportunity.”
Road Life and Homeschooling: A Harmonious Balance
Life on the road is integral to the Mylon Hayes Family ministry. Mylon shares that his children thrive in this traveling lifestyle. Having grown up accustomed to touring with The Hayes Family, the transition to traveling as The Mylon Hayes Family was seamless. They adapted easily to a smaller vehicle and a more intimate family travel dynamic. The children’s enthusiasm for travel is unwavering; they are always eager for the next journey and never complain about life on the road.
Homeschooling is the cornerstone that enables their travel-intensive ministry. Educating their children at home provides the flexibility necessary to maintain their demanding travel schedule. Mylon highlights his children’s dedication to their music and ministry, noting their consistent hard work and wholehearted commitment during performances. Seeing their joyful smiles on stage, Mylon believes they are genuinely living their dreams, a blessing for which they give heartfelt praise to the Lord.
Family Bonds and Musical Legacy: Honoring the Past, Embracing the Future
The conversation naturally turns to Mylon’s extended family and the legacy of The Hayes Family. Mylon speaks warmly of his mother following the passing of his father, Howard Hayes, a few years prior to the interview. He describes his mother as doing well, still actively engaged in music, playing piano and singing in her church choir.
His sisters, Sharon and Janet, also remain deeply connected to music. Sharon, married to Jamie, is raising her family and actively involved in her church’s music program, playing piano and singing. Janet teaches piano and performs at church events and special occasions.
The Hayes Family’s musical legacy continues through select reunion performances. Honoring their mother’s wishes to keep the family musical tradition alive in tribute to their father, The Hayes Family performs together for a few dates each year. Mylon reflects on the formative years of his childhood, singing with his parents and sisters, cherishing the memories and special moments they shared.
Hymn Sing Tour: Celebrating Timeless Treasures of Faith
The Mylon Hayes Family’s participation in the Hymn Sing tour has been a remarkable experience. Mylon expresses deep gratitude for Gerald Wolfe and the opportunity to be part of this cherished event. The Hymn Sing tour resonates deeply with their musical passion, as they hold a profound love for the timeless hymns of the church. This musical style aligns perfectly with their own ministry focus.
Joining voices with other gospel artists and congregations in singing these classic hymns is a source of immense joy. Mylon is particularly thrilled to witness young people, including his own children, embracing these hymns with enthusiasm. His children’s familiarity with hymns stems from their upbringing, where hymns were integral to their home life, church, and even their homeschool curriculum.
Mylon emphasizes the enduring power of hymns, highlighting their ability to offer hope and encouragement across generations. He hopes that seeing young people like his children singing these hymns will inspire other young individuals to discover and appreciate these musical treasures. He stresses the importance of passing this rich heritage to future generations by continuing to sing these timeless songs. When asked about favorite hymns, Mylon mentions a medley of “love” themed hymns from their latest recording, including “The Way That He Loves,” “The Wonder Of It All,” and “The Love Of God,” as well as the powerful hymn “What A Day That Will Be.”
“Devoted”: A Project Reflecting Faith and Commitment
Their latest project, “Devoted,” has garnered significant acclaim. Mylon expresses gratitude for the positive reviews and the heartfelt responses from listeners who have shared how deeply the songs have resonated with them. He emphasizes their prayer that God would use their music to bring glory to Himself, offer encouragement to fellow believers, and extend salvation to those seeking faith.
Roger Talley, a respected figure in gospel music, produced “Devoted.” Mylon was delighted to collaborate with Talley again after several years, acknowledging his exceptional talent and his encouraging support for the children throughout the recording process.
The album features exceptional songwriting from leading gospel music writers. Mylon’s cousin, Rebecca Peck, and her husband Tom contributed a significant number of songs. Mylon highlights Rebecca’s songwriting talent and her collaborations with emerging writers, including her partnership with the renowned Dianne Wilkinson. The album’s title track, “Devoted To You,” co-written by Peck and Wilkinson, is a personal favorite of Mylon’s. Eight songs on the album originate from Peck Music Group.
Rodney Griffin, another prominent songwriter, along with Nathalie Harp, penned “Grace Happened Here,” which Mylon praises as an outstanding song. Sandy Blythe contributed “I Choose To Stand,” a song that Mylon describes as a powerful call to commitment and standing firm in faith. In keeping with their style, the album also includes familiar hymns, featuring two selections from the Redback Church Hymnal: “Praise Him, Praise Him,” an a cappella piece arranged by Cody McVey, and the convention classic “It’s Just Like Heaven.” Cody McVey also created the orchestrations for three songs on the album, showcasing his exceptional talent honed under the mentorship of the late Lari Goss. Mylon anticipates a bright future for Cody McVey in the music industry.
The overarching theme of “Devoted” centers on challenging Christians to remain steadfast in God’s Word and to actively live out their faith in an increasingly challenging world.
“What An Anchor”: A Song of Steadfast Hope
When asked about a song with particular personal significance, Mylon immediately points to “What An Anchor,” from the “Devoted” album. He was captivated by the song, written by Rebecca Peck and Dianne Wilkinson, from the first time he heard it. The message of unwavering assurance and comfort in the unchanging nature of Jesus Christ and His Word deeply resonates with him. This truth provides peace and stability amidst life’s constant changes.
Mylon sees “What An Anchor” as encapsulating the central message of the “Devoted” album and their concerts. He connects the song to Hebrews 6:19, “Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and steadfast.”
The Concert Experience: Something for Everyone
Mylon describes a Mylon Hayes Family concert as an experience that appeals to a diverse audience. Their performances feature a variety of songs and arrangements designed to showcase each family member’s talents. The children’s growing musicality is highlighted as they incorporate piano playing into their stage presence, a feature that audiences particularly enjoy. They aspire to integrate more live instrumentation into future performances as the children’s skills develop.
Wendy plays a vital role in their concerts, sharing heartfelt messages alongside her beautiful alto vocals. Mylon emphasizes Wendy’s genuine nature and her ability to connect deeply with audiences through her sharing, which resonates strongly with listeners.
Humor on the Road: Unexpected Moments and Mishaps
Sharing a lighthearted moment, Mylon recounts a funny road story from a performance at Meramec Caverns in Stanton, Missouri, alongside The Collingsworth Family. During a collaborative performance of “Show A Little Bit Of Love And Kindness,” Wendy, while exiting the tall stage, slipped and slid down the steps. Fortunately, the sound technician helped break her fall, and she was unharmed, though a shoe heel didn’t survive. The incident, witnessed by a large audience, prompted Phil Collingsworth to inquire from the stage, “Are you alright?” to which Wendy replied with a slightly squeaky “I’m alright!”
Another humorous travel mishap occurred on a Sunday afternoon after a morning performance in eastern North Carolina. Eager to return home, Mylon inadvertently drove east on Interstate 40 instead of west, traveling for over an hour in the wrong direction. The realization dawned when a road sign indicated “Wilmington 30 miles.” They were able to laugh about the mistake, grateful it hadn’t happened later at night and further from home.
Connecting with The Mylon Hayes Family
For fans wanting to connect with The Mylon Hayes Family, Mylon directs them to their website: www.themylonhayesfamily.com. They also maintain a presence on Facebook and Twitter. Their music is available on iTunes and other digital platforms.
Mission and Message: More Than Entertainment
When asked about the message they hope fans take away from their concerts and music, Mylon’s response is deeply rooted in their ministry’s purpose. While acknowledging the entertainment aspect of music, their primary goal is spiritual impact. For believers, they hope to deepen their love for the Savior. They consistently pray that their music and testimonies will offer encouragement to the discouraged, support those struggling with challenges, and ultimately guide people to hope and forgiveness in the Lord.
Recognizing the breakdown of the family unit as a significant societal issue, they aim to strengthen families, emphasizing God’s foundational role in establishing the family even before the church. While acknowledging their family’s imperfections, they prioritize daily scripture reading and prayer. Ultimately, their deepest desire is to address the spiritual needs of their audience, offering salvation through Jesus Christ to those who need it. They want people to understand their need for salvation, how to be saved, and that Jesus is the only way to redemption from sin. The entertainment element of their music serves as a vehicle for delivering this vital message.
Final Thoughts and Gratitude
In closing, Mylon expresses heartfelt gratitude to those familiar with their family and music for their graciousness and support. He extends an invitation to those unfamiliar with The Mylon Hayes Family to attend a concert or explore their music. Above all, they give thanks to God for His blessings in their lives and express their commitment to spending their days pointing others to Him. They ask for continued prayers and express their appreciation to Absolutely Gospel for the interview opportunity.
This insightful conversation with Mylon Hayes reveals the heart and mission of The Mylon Hayes Family. Their dedication to Southern Gospel music, their unwavering faith, and their commitment to family ministry create a powerful and inspiring story that resonates deeply with audiences.
