CMA artist Austin Hicks unleashes an adrenaline-packed performance with his new single,    I Still Pledge Allegiance, recently released to country radio.  Hicks said, “I co-wrote the song with my dad and brother (musicians in Austin’s band) to honor the flag and the men and women who fight bravely to defend it.  I come from a long line of military people – my dad and grandfather served in the U.S. Air Force, my other grandfather served in the U.S. Army, and my great grandfather was a veteran of WWI.  Honoring God, my country, and family is what I’m all about!” 

Hicks has shared the stage with country greats Charlie Daniels, Neal McCoy, Rodney Atkins, Trent Tomlinson, Emerson Drive, Exile, Clay Walker, and others.  His seasoned vocals and high-energy performance has entertained thousands of fans across the U.S.  In the midst of his 2010 tour, Austin was honored to perform a concert on the National Mall in Washington DC on September 11, 2010.

On the heels of his DC performance, Hicks took the stage at the Albuquerque International Balloon Fiesta, an event that drew 811,000 people in 2010. 

Hicks was also invited to sing the National Anthem at the Daytona International Speedway.  As a diehard NASCAR fan, Hicks said, “it was a dream come true to sing at the historical speedway. “

A native from southwestern Ohio, Austin’s musical roots were formed at an early age as his parents brought him and his younger brother on stage while they played and sang southern gospel, country, and bluegrass music.  Other musical influences include Marty Stuart, Gary Allan, and Dierks Bentley.  Along with playing music, Hicks found time to participate in multiple sports throughout his childhood and teenage years.  “I really enjoyed baseball, track and field, and football.  The hard work and dedication it takes to be the best at your individual position, as well as working as a team, is much like being in a band.  Everyone has to know how they fit into the overall game plan.  Sometimes you have to step up and make the play, and other times you’re in a supporting role while someone else is making their move.”  While playing high school football, Hicks suffered a knee injury that eventually required surgery.  These events lead him to make the difficult decision to lay varsity sports aside and dedicate his time toward his life-long passion, singing country music. 

Hicks has his own tour bus and a band of full-time musicians that travel with him from venue to venue.  “I feel blessed to have the support of my family on the road,” Hicks says.  The Rattlesnake River Band includes his father playing rhythm guitar and his younger brother playing lead guitar.  Austin also asked his mom to help out and gave her the title of Merchandise Operations Manager (M.O.M.).  Determination, hard work, and undeniable talent has gained Austin countless accolades and incredible respect of so many of today’s top figures in the music industry.  As many have said, “This young man is one to watch!”