Holdyn Barder shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Holdyn, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What battle are you avoiding?
One of the biggest battles I’m avoiding at the moment is being comfortable with being on the road so much. As an artist, I know that touring is necessary and certainly what brings me the most joy (I wouldn’t do it if I didn’t love it)! I’m very much a routine-oriented individual, so having some form of structure on the road will be very helpful! I’m a big Google Calendar guy, but I need more than that. I need a gym routine, nutrition routine, and a bed routine. I’m learning as I go!
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I’m a country artist and songwriter! I was born in Houston, TX and now reside in Nashville, TN. I was raised in Philly. I’m a proud Philly sports fan and have even made songs about that. I’ve taken my momentum from those regionally successful tunes like “Go Birds” and “Ring That Bell” to launch a nationally-touring career. My music journey began by discovering a blue guitar-shaped paper clip next to my tennis bag in 2013. Little did I know that I’d turn into a full-time artist about ten years later. Below is my formal biography:
Holdyn Barder is an undeniable rising star. Born in Houston, raised in Philly, and shaped by summers at the Jersey Shore, Holdyn delivers modern country with a breezy, summer edge – loud, proud, and built for moments that fill stadiums. Philly’s championship mindset runs deep in him, too: he’s relentless, hungry, and always pushing forward. With over a quarter-million followers, millions of streams and views, and a stage presence that demands attention, Holdyn is quickly becoming one of Country Music’s most dynamic breakout artists who thrives on the electric connection with his fans.
Holdyn Barder’s rise to becoming Philly’s Hometown Country Star has built him a hefty 2025 touring schedule; Holdyn was handpicked as a support act for Post Malone’s The BIG ASS Stadium Tour Travelin’ Tailgate, Luke Bryan’s Country Song Came On Tour 92.5 XTU Anniversary Show, events with Jason Aldean, Darius Rucker, Chris Janson, Tyler Rich, and more. He’s lit up festivals such as CMA Fest, Barefoot Country Music Fest, and was crowned the 2024 Barefoot Country Music Fest Hometown Star. Featured by CMT, FOX, NBC, ABC, The Philadelphia Inquirer, on top of a partnership with Wawa, Holdyn’s fire is growing stronger. “My fans are why I do this,” says Holdyn. With a debut album on the horizon featuring new songs co-written with Nashville’s hottest songwriters, Holdyn Barder looks forward to introducing his new sound to Nashville, to the world, and to his fans. Holdyn Barder has arrived.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
My mom. My mom has always understood me unlike anyone else. She saw the vision and my goals. I saw them, too, but it was already in her awareness. I’m arriving to that reality now.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
There have been many times where I’ve questioned whether or not to continue pursuing music. When I first moved to Nashville, you come in with so much energy and ambition. Reality doesn’t really hit you until five years in when you realize you have to build fans, music, your sound, your touring, your band, everything. When push comes to shove, you have to show up. There have been many occasions where I thought about doing a Plan B. I worked at a record label as an intern. I worked at a boutique and full-integrated digital marketing agency, but quickly realized that being “comfortable” and employed by someone else would lead to me missing out on why I move to Nashville in the first place.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. What important truth do very few people agree with you on?
Music is the vehicle by which our work is carried out. What God has in store for me may come in many forms of service and/or work. Right now, music is that vehicle. One day it may be something else. Regardless of the conduit, God is at the center of it all. I do music to help and uplift others, and it’s very clear to me that is my purpose in life, at least right now. Life is too short so let’s remind each other that everything is a blessing. Life is precious and goes by fast.
Thank you so much for all of your openness so far. Maybe we can close with a future oriented question. When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m surrounded by those who I love and those who love me. Whether it’s back home in PA or NJ, in Nashville, or on vacation, home is where my heart is. I also feel at peace when I’m in solitude, away from the craziness of life and people.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.holdynbarder.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/holdynbardermusic/
- Twitter: https://x.com/holdynbarder
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HoldynBarderMusic/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/holdynbarder
Image Credits
Chris Bayer, 2B Photos
Matt Bayer, 2B Photos
Amanda Daubert, Front Rail Photography
