Drummer Hayley Brownell is part of the 2-hour video of Olivia Rodrigo’s sold-out “GUTS World Tour” show which is now playing on Netflix. She is a 29-year-old emotive and passionate drummer/songwriter/artist based in Los Angeles, California.
After receiving her bachelor’s in music at California State University Northridge in 2015, Hayley has had the pleasure of touring internationally/recording for multiple artists such as Olivia Rodrigo, Conan Gray, Cailin Russo, Drake Bell and Daya. She currently is solely working with Olivia Rodrigo.
Making it to the world stage as a drummer can be one of the most difficult things to do. Despite the challenge, there is a common theme among those who have successfully reached for the stars and landed. Hard work, perseverance, and determination are traits that few possess and put into action along their entire journey. Hayley Brownell positions herself with these traits and has broken into the spotlight. She has been a part of massive tours and is playing with three-time Grammy winner Olivia Rodrigo, Performing and playing for shows such as the Grammys, and SNL is no easy feat and does not come without hard work.
Along with her freelance achievements, Hayley has recently launched her new solo career under the name, Changeling.
Apart from music, Hayley is passionate about female empowerment and wants to encourage other young drummers to start playing. She was the spokesperson for the 2022 Hit Like A Girl Contest!
Hayley passionately says in an interview, “Navigating the music industry is not an easy one and I wasn’t taught how to; it’s something I had to learn by experience. There have been so many obstacles along the way- dry spells of no work, playing 5 shows a week with different artists/bands & hardly making any money, gigs falling through, sexism, etc. I’m sure anyone you ask in this industry will say something similar- it’s just hard. But like I said earlier, I kept the mentality that I would just keep going because it felt important enough to push through those difficult moments. Continuing to keep myself open to opportunities and great friendships has propelled me to this new stage of life I find myself in now.
One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is knowing your worth and asking for what you want. Most of the time you are advocating for yourself in this industry and it’s extremely important to know that your work deserves recognition; whether that is financial or otherwise. Another is surrounding yourself with people who help you see this and encourage your growth… this is soooo valuable.”