Biography: Dan Smalley

Dan Smalley: The Country Artist with a Story to Tell, Coming to The British Country Music Festival 2025

Dan Smalley, an Alaskan-born, Louisiana-raised country singer-songwriter, brings a voice of experience shaped by life’s challenges and triumphs to his music. As he overcame adversity, including a life-altering incident, he embraced a path of redemption and authenticity, resulting in a unique sound that blends traditional country with soulful influences, making him a compelling artist to watch.

As he says himself, he maybe shouldn’t be here at all! But after a series of life-altering events, he’s making a name for himself in the country music scene.

So, get ready because Dan Smalley is bringing his unique brand of country music and stories to The British Country Music Festival in 2025!

Early Life and Influences

Dan Smalley was born in Alaska. However, he spent his childhood moving around due to his father’s Air Force career. Eventually, he settled in Shreveport, Louisiana, with his mother’s family. Even though his parents had diverse musical tastes, Smalley discovered his passion for country music through streaming services like Pandora.

Smalley is an old soul immersed in country legends’ music. Artists like Merle Haggard, Willie Nelson, Johnny Cash, and the soulful Al Green deeply inspired him. Furthermore, the success of Chris Stapleton, Jason Isbell, and Sturgill Simpson motivated him to move to Nashville. These influences shaped his unique sound, blending traditional country with his Louisiana roots and a touch of soul.

Overcoming Adversity

Smalley’s journey has not been without its challenges. As he says, he has got the scars to prove it! A life-changing incident involving a shooting led him to give up alcohol.

“Last time I drank alcohol, a buddy dropped me off in front of my house and I went to get in my house and I couldn’t get in, so I kicked the door in and it just wasn’t my house. The man that owned the house shot me with a 40 calibre in the chest and the arm. I was pronounced dead on the scene, and they revived me on the way to the hospital. And that was it for me. That was the God-slap.”

Read Dan’s full interview with A Taste of Country here How a ‘God-Slap’ Set Dan Smalley on His Best Country Road

Following this experience, Smalley committed to changing his life. This turning point inspired him to pursue his music career with renewed passion. He moved to Tennessee with his wife, Heather, and their two children.

Musical Career

In Nashville, Smalley signed a publishing deal with Keith Stegall in 2017. Subsequently, he found success as a songwriter, with artists like Ashley McBryde and Dillon Carmichael recording his songs. He has also shared the stage with renowned artists such as Willie Nelson, Tim McGraw, and Dwight Yoakam.

Smalley signed with Big Machine Label Group and released his debut EP, If I’m Being Honest in 2020. The EP showcases his honest storytelling and traditional country sound. The title track, “If I’m Being Honest,” reveals his vulnerabilities and commitment to authenticity.

“If I’m being honest, what you see ainʼt what you get / The voice that I put out there ainʼt the one thatʼs in my head / I’m a lot less polished than most of my friends think / But if I’m being honest, I’m just barely keepin’ clean.”

Recent Success and “The State of Country Music”

After navigating major record deals, Smalley chose an independent path. Then, he signed a distribution deal with ONErpm. According to Smalley, “ONErpm allows me to be me! Bottom line.”

In May 2024, Smalley released his first self-produced, full-length record, The State of Country Music, through Smallside Records/ONErpm. The album was nominated for the 2024 BCMA International Record of the Year. In addition to singing about honky-tonks, whiskey, and women, Smalley’s recent album also features songs about life, love, and family.

“Dan Smalley displays dynamic songwriting & down home soul…Rising country music craftsman Dan Smalley is taking a more evocative approach to the genre. In a world where things come and go, he recognizes the cyclical nature of music, hoping to bring it back around to the good ole days.”  Music Mecca 

Accolades and Performances

Smalley’s talent has allowed him to perform at major festivals, including Faster Horses and Country Fest. His performances have garnered attention both in the US and across the globe. Furthermore, his ability to connect with audiences has solidified his reputation as a captivating live performer.

Don’t Miss Dan Smalley at The British Country Music Festival 2025

Dan Smalley’s journey is a testament to his resilience and dedication to his craft. Now, with his unique blend of traditional country, soulful influences, and honest storytelling, he is making his mark on the country music scene. So, catch Dan Smalley at The British Country Music Festival in 2025. You won’t want to miss his performance!