Chart-topping songwriter Jacob Hackworth is stepping into the spotlight with the release of his debut single ‘When I Don’t,' available everywhere now. Known for penning hits for some of country music’s biggest names, Hackworth now introduces his own voice to fans with a gritty, emotionally-charged track that captures the chaos of heartbreak and the downward spiral that follows.
Written by Hackworth alongside Chris Tompkins, Daniel Ross, and Josh Phillips, ‘When I Don’t' dives into the mindset of someone coping with a breakup by turning to the same habits that caused the relationship to fall apart. Produced by Ross, the song features a cinematic backdrop, allowing Hackworth’s rich, smooth vocals to take the lead and carry the emotional weight of the lyrics.
Though this marks his first solo release, Hackworth is no stranger to success in the music world. He’s behind Bailey Zimmerman’s six-week No. 1 ‘Rock And A Hard Place,' Corey Kent’s current single ‘This Heart,' tracks on Jelly Roll’s chart-topping album ‘Beautifully Broken' and Tucker Wetmore’s breakout hit ‘Wine Into Whiskey.' Since signing with Goat Island and Boom Music Group in 2022, Hackworth has built a name for himself as one of Nashville’s most in-demand songwriters, racking up more than 20 major label cuts.
Now, he’s shifting gears and pursuing the dream that brought him to Nashville in the first place.
“There is a feeling of reassurance that happens when another artist cuts a song I’ve written and I love collaborating and building that feeling of community around town,” Hackworth shared. “But I came to town to be an artist, so I’m stoked to be releasing something that I can call my own. I’ve seen and experienced a lot of heartbreak throughout my life and listening to songs about hard times helped me through. As an artist, I want to return the favor and create music that might help someone else. ‘When I Don’t’ is the first pass of that torch.”
The single arrives the same day Hackworth hits the road with close friend and frequent collaborator Tucker Wetmore on the Waves On A Sunset tour. The run includes a highly anticipated stop at Nashville’s Ryman Auditorium on May 21.
Hackworth is currently working on more new music, slated for release later this summer.
Upcoming Tour Dates:
April 11 – Albuquerque, NM – Revel
April 12 – Grand Junction, CO – Warehouse 2565
April 16 – Denver, CO – Ogden Theatre
April 17 – Denver, CO – Ogden Theatre
April 18 – Boulder, CO – Boulder Theatre
April 24 – Sacramento, CA – Channel 24
May 2 – Helotes, TX – Floore’s Country Store
May 4 – Katy, TX – Mo’s Place
May 21 – Nashville, TN – Ryman Auditorium

