Since Justin Moore burst onto the country music scene in 2008, he has made a name for himself for upholding the traditional country music sound through his music. According to the Arkansas native, this is all thanks to one of his biggest musical influences, Hank Williams Jr. 

In a recent interview with his record label, Moore reflected on Hank Jr.’s career and how it impacted him. 

“He was kinda like the Elvis Presley of the music that I wanted to make,” Moore shared. “And he was huge at the time that I was growin’ up learnin’ to love country music. He played every instrument, he wrote his songs, and he sang about how I was growin’ up and all that stuff.”

The “This Is My Dirt” singer continued to praise the country music icon and even admitted that he believes Hank Jr. has been, to some extent, “overlooked” as far as awards and accolades throughout his career. 

“[It] sounds ridiculous when you think of all the things that he’s done and won and all the huge hits he’s had. But I don’t think people realize how talented he is,” Moore urged. “There’s not a guy in country music history who’s had a better vocal range, low to high, period. There’s not been an artist who’s been a better musician overall than him, ever, in the history of country music. There’s not been a better songwriter ever in the history of country music, in my opinion. And he deserves all the credit that he can get for his artistry.”

It’s no surprise that Justin Moore lists Hank Williams Jr. as a musical influence. His debut album included the song “Hank It,” which is a nod to the country music superstar. The lyrics include several references to Bocphus and his songs, including “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight” and encourages listeners to live life like Hank Jr. 

In 2016, Moore had the opportunity to team up with his musical hero when he joined Hank Jr., Brantley Gilbert and Brad Paisley for a re-recording of Hank Jr.’s chart-topping hit, “Born To Boogie.” This rendition appeared on Hank Williams Jr.’s album It’s About Time. They also had the chance to perform the song together at CMA Fest that same year.   

In his 60-plus year career, Hank Jr. has received a number of awards and accolades including the titles of ACM Entertainer of the Year and CMA Entertainer of the Year, and BMI Icon. He also won a GRAMMY and was previously inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and Country Music Hall of Fame. 

Known for his unique blend of country, rock, and Southern rock music, Hank Williams Jr. continues to tour at age 75. This Year, he’s set to perform on the Rock The Country Tour, the Rock the South festival, and he will co-headline the The annual Harley-Davidson Homecoming Festival with Chris Stapleton. 

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