We had the good fortune of connecting with Patrick “Guitarboy” Hayes and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Patrick “Guitarboy”, what led you to pursuing a creative path professionally?
Growing up in music allowed me to be exposed to the art. It actually chose me because of my family’s interest in instruments. My family formed a gospel group which consisted of my grandparents:Henry MuleTrain, Basheba, my mother Frankie, my aunt Susie and my uncle Junior. I became intrigued with guitars and all the other sounds by watching their performances. It is in my bloodline. I later became endorsed by Fender thanks to Moya and Ed. I named one of my Fenders after my uncle. He always inspired me to become a professional musician.

Person smiling, wearing a white cap, holding an electric guitar, in a dark room with purple lighting.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
What makes me different is my eccentric style of playing. I am innovative in mastering altered tunings and creating my own sound. I also play multiple instruments and various genres of music. Music has allowed me to meet my idols and also to work with some of them. Music has expanded my sound to become a universal gift for the world. I speak through my music and I love inspiring others.I gave up playing baseball for music. While attending Jackson State University, I earned an undergraduate degree in Early Childhood and I earned a Master’s degree in Health & Physical Education. I was also a former educator. My journey was definitely not easy. I played for the college skits, had gigs and tutored along the way. I also played on artist tours as well. I studied late nights and even worked at UPS. The main lesson I learned is to never give up. I am presently working on K-pop music which is exciting!I have mentored and enjoyed working with Christopher Kingfish Ingram. He is the next rising star. We did the project Hard Road together. It embodies an extraordinary piece of work. My latest work is with a young talent called SemajB. Our single is Love Ain’t Fair. Music Executive King and I recognize Semaj’s full potential and artistic abilities. Songwriter Javon and I are working on Semaj’s new project. I am proud to have collaborated with blues legend Bobby Rush. One collab I was also proud of was with the JSU drum-line. Corey Amos led the way by recording with me and the raw group of bandmasters. I am always and forever grateful to my legal mentor, Kendall Minter. His legacy will last forever. Music is my life.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I have a few favorite spots to visit.
I love San Diego and Big Sur.
I love NOBU in Malibu.
The mountains and beach inspire my creativity.
I also love helping to create cards for the LA Children’s Hospital.
The kids mean the world to me.
I heal the world through my intricate tones of music.
PS. I love the street tacos and The Lakers!
Go Dodgers!

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I truly appreciate my mother Frankie for her guidance and motivation. She believed in me from the age of 5 years old. My brother Lance co-wrote songs with me and played the drums. My uncle Larry encouraged me to pursue baseball and music. His humor lit up the rooms. I would like to thank Guy Moot, c/o Warner Chappell for assisting me throughout my musical journey/career. Betsy and Guy are phenomenal individuals. I would like to thank Manager T for orchestrating this interview.

Instagram: @guitarboymusic1

Image Credits
Photo by Lucius James IV

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