Mississippi on the Map welcomes Michael Hardy, a.k.a. HARDY, a multi-platinum artist and songwriter whose roots run deep in Neshoba County. From cabins at the Neshoba County Fairgrounds to arrowheads found along hunting camp creek beds, Hardy’s childhood memories fuel his songwriting and his love of place. In this episode, he joins host Charlie Worsham to talk about the powerful ways Mississippi continues to shape his life and music.

Hardy shares stories of growing up in Philadelphia, discovering rock ’n’ roll on cassette tapes in his dad’s truck, and finding success in the music industry. He recalls the unique culture of the Neshoba County Fair, his passion for Native American history, and an unforgettable visit to the Lynyrd Skynyrd crash site near McComb. He also reflects on the pride of returning home to perform at Mississippi State’s Dudy Noble Field, connecting his music career to his lifelong love of MS athletics.

Whether he’s writing about “Bottomland” or reflecting on his Mississippi roots, Hardy embodies the storytelling spirit at the heart of America’s music.

Learn more about Hardy’s charitable foundation at: thehardyfund.com.

Mississippi Places Mentioned: Neshoba County Fair; Dudy Noble Field; Davis Wade Stadium; Dockery Farms; Natchez Trace Parkway; Philadelphia, Mississippi; Pearl River bottomlands; Starkville; Mississippi State University; McComb; Liberty; Lynyrd Skynyrd crash site; Mississippi Delta, Clarksdale, Nanih Waiya; Natchez.

People and Groups Mentioned: Ashley Gorley, Bad Company, Boston, Brent Cobb, Brett Favre, Charlie Patton, CJ Solar, Chuck Etheridge, Craig Wiseman, Derek George, Eminem, Florida Georgia Line, Ike Turner, Jeff Stewart, Jerry Clower, Jimmie Rodgers, John Mellencamp, Joey Moi, Ketch Secor, Kid Rock, Lainey Wilson, Led Zeppelin, Lightnin’ Hopkins, Marty Stuart, Morgan Freeman, Morgan Wallen, Oprah Winfrey, Pearl Jam, Pearl River (band), Pops Staples, Robert Johnson, Robert Plant, Son House, The Eagles, William Faulkner, Wright Thompson, Zac Selmon.