Why HARDY calls himself the 'hillbilly from the real Philly'

Before commanding sold-out arenas, country sensation HARDY found joy in a much quieter setting: the local cemetery.

During a chat with Jimmy Fallon on State Farm’s Neighbourhood Beats, the 35-year-old artist reminisced about his days as a gravedigger in his beloved hometown of Philadelphia, Mississippi.

Describing the role as the "most fun" he ever had outside of music, he painted a charming picture of small-town life where his duties often shifted from digging to chasing stray dogs during the dry summer months.

The "Six Feet Under" singer, born Michael Wilson Hardy, remains fiercely proud of his roots, playfully dubbing himself the "hillbilly from the real Philly."

Since moving to Nashville, he has transformed from a successful songwriter for acts like Florida Georgia Line into a 4x platinum-certified powerhouse with hits like "One Beer" and "Truck Bed."

His latest project, Country! Country!, arrived in September 2025, further cementing his place at the top of the charts.

Away from the spotlight, life is equally rewarding. HARDY and his wife, Caleigh, celebrated the arrival of their daughter, Rosie, last March.

Reflecting on their marriage since 2021, the singer told PEOPLE that "communication" is the bedrock of their bond.

He praised Caleigh’s emotional depth and passion, noting that learning to "talk it out" has created the perfect foundation for their family.

From the quiet fields of Mississippi to the bright lights of Madison Square Garden, HARDY’s journey proves that a grounded start can lead to the highest peaks.