Hailey and Blaze
Hailey joined Team Blaze in 2025 and has been a longtime Blaze member. She values giving back to her community through music.
Hailey's Thoughts
“I want my music to be impactful and help build up others. Working with Blaze speaks to the values I have.”
–Hailey James
Dan's Thoughts
“Hailey has strong local roots, just like Blaze. Her commitment to empowering local talent and pursuing her dreams makes her a valued member of Team Blaze.”
–Dan Stoltz, Blaze CEO/President
Hailey James
A dynamic singer, songwriter, and performer, Hailey James has quickly become one of the Midwest’s most compelling rising country artists. Her powerhouse vocals and authentic storytelling set her apart, while her grounded, community-focused spirit makes her stand out on stage and as a Blaze Partner.
A Cottage Grove, Minnesota native, Hailey is a five-time award winner from the Midwest Country Music Organization, Hailey has been recognized as Female Vocalist and Songwriter of the Year in 2022 and 2023, along with earning New Artist of the Year and Song of the Year for her original track “Wide Awake” in 2021. In 2024, Hailey was named Vocalist of the Year – Modern Country Female at the Josie Music Awards held at the Grand Ole Opry in Nashville, reflecting the growth of her national recognition.
Hailey’s recent milestones reflect a career on the rise. She performed at U.S. Bank Stadium for the Vikings vs. Chiefs Halftime Show in October 2023 and returned to perform the National Anthem in 2024. Hailey has opened for country stars including Carrie Underwood, Dylan Scott, Tigirlily Gold, Diamond Rio, and Crystal Gayle. In 2021, she shared a viral on-stage moment with Dustin Lynch at Hoofbeat in Cadott, WI. She returned to the festival in 2025 to perform the hit song “You Look Like You Love Me” with Riley Green in front of more than 20,000 fans.
Hailey’s journey as a musician and performer began early. At just 14 years old, she was a weekly featured performer at Country Nites Saloon in Hastings, Minnesota, building the stage presence and connection with audiences that continue to define her shows. An active member of the Midwest Country Music Organization and Songtown, Hailey continues to refine her craft, collaborating with Nashville publishers, up-and-coming artists, and chart-topping hit songwriters while drawing inspiration from artists like Carrie Underwood, Kelsea Ballerini, and Lauren Alaina to shape her own distinctive sound.
From local hometown venues to Nashville stages and beyond, Hailey remains deeply connected to her Minnesota roots and the communities that have supported her along the way. As her original music gains traction across country radio, her ambition, resilience, and heart embody the “Go for it” spirit. Hailey’s partnership with Blaze represents a shared commitment to empowering local talent and celebrating the drive it takes to pursue big dreams.
Welcome to Blaze Credit Union
From Waseca to Keewatin, St. Cloud to Woodbury, the Minneapolis-St. Paul Metro, and the communities in between, we've been bettering the lives of Minnesotans like you since 1934. We reflect carefully on how to best support you and your dreams.
We’re driven by Midwestern values — community, integrity, and plain old hard work. Wherever you're in the Twin Cities or beyond, consider Blaze as your local guide in your financial journey.
Let’s blaze your trail together.
