Opry 100: Country's Greatest Songs

Tennessee Whiskey (Live on the Grand Ole Opry, October 29th, 2016)

Graveyard Whistling

“Rise Again” is one of Hudson Macready’s most powerful songs — a raw, honest reflection on getting knocked down and finding the strength to stand back up. Built around his cinematic storytelling and soaring melodies, the song centers on resilience, second chances, and refusing to stay broken. Hudson captures the moment when pain turns into purpose, reminding listeners that even in the darkest seasons, there’s always a spark worth fighting for. ‘Rise Again’ is hopeful, heartfelt, and made for anyone who’s had to rebuild themselves from the ground up.”

Rise Again

“Earn” is a warm, heartfelt love song  that tells the story of Jack and Karey — two people whose connection grows quietly, honestly, and deeply. Karey earns her nickname Wildflower not because she demands attention, but because she blooms in her own way, in her own time. Through Jack’s eyes, Hudson captures the small moments that reveal her strength, kindness, and the beauty most people never stop long enough to notice. With gentle Americana tones and intimate storytelling, ‘Earn’ celebrates the kind of love that isn’t flashy, but real — the kind you earn.”

Earn

Hudson Macready’s 4th release “Calling Drunk” is about the moments when loneliness and regret hit hardest—when liquid courage drives someone to reach out to the person they still can’t let go of.  With honest lyrics and Hudson’s smooth, heartfelt delivery, the track feels raw, real, and timeless — the kind of song you play on repeat.

Calling Drunk

Growing up on 150 acres outside Knoxville, Tennessee, Hudson Macready learned early what it meant to chase passion with both hands. His dad would load up the car for road-trips to see Willie Nelson, Gary Clark Jr., Marcus King, Jason Isbell, David Gray, Amos Lee, and more. Those nights weren’t just concerts — they were masterclasses in storytelling, musicianship, and the art of holding a crowd in the palm of your hand.  At just 10 years old, Hudson stepped onto the stage with blues legend Buddy Guy, guitar in hand, and never looked back. Two years later, a Dave Matthews cover he posted online earned him a backstage invitation — moments that cemented his love for performing and set him on his own creative path.  
As the songs kept coming, so did the depth. At 16, he wrote“Better Man,” a raw and deeply personal track inspired by his great uncle’s battle through addiction, loss, and redemption. The song resonated, introducing listeners to a young artist unafraid to explore real, heavy emotion. It was a turning point that showed Hudson just how powerful honesty in music could be.
Now splitting time between music and acting — including a recurring
role on ABC’s High Potential— Hudson is building a career rooted inauthenticity and connection. Whether it’s a stripped-down ballad or a driving, full-band anthem, his songs are designed to hit you in the chest and linger long after the last note.
His newest single, “Calling Drunk,” captures that emotional honesty at its core. It’s the shaky-voiced moment you finally say what’s been sitting heavy inside — the late-night confession everyone knows but rarely admits. The song marks a major step forward — no matter what life throws your way. For Hudson, that’s more than a lyric. It’s his story.