Jimmy Wayne

Jimmy Wayne is a former foster kid turned country music artist known for his songs that bring attention to his mission of raising awareness for children in foster care. His popular hits include “Stay Gone,” “Paper Angels,” “I Love You This Much,” and “Do You Believe Me Now,” which earned him BMI’s Million-Air Award for receiving one million radio spins in America. In 2008, his second album, "Do You Believe Me Now," was released, with the title track becoming Wayne's first Number One hit. The following year, he joined Brad Paisley and Dierks Bentley on the American Saturday Night tour, performing his album "Sara Smile."

In 2010, Wayne undertook a significant journey on foot from Nashville to Phoenix, a 1,660-mile walk as part of the "Meet Me Halfway" campaign. This courageous act aimed to raise awareness for kids aging out of the foster care system, a cause Wayne is particularly passionate about. Despite suffering a broken foot during the walk, he completed the adventure, and his advocacy for foster children continues unabated. In 2012, his efforts culminated in the passing of legislative bills that extended the age of foster care to 21 in California, Tennessee, North Carolina, and Ohio.

Wayne has also made substantial contributions to the field of writing. He co-authored the novel "Paper Angels" and the autobiography "Walk to Beautiful: The Power of Love and a Homeless Kid Who Found the Way." This memoir quickly became a three-time New York Times bestseller and crossed the 100,000 print sales milestone in 18 months. Additionally, Wayne wrote and published a children's book, "Ruby The Foster Dog," and paired it with an album, "Ruby Toons."

Notably, Wayne has been recognized for his extensive work in foster care advocacy. In 2016, he was the proud recipient of the prestigious Points of Light Award from President George W. Bush (41). The next year, he received an honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters from William Woods University and an honorary Doctorate of Fine Arts from Cal State University San Marcos in 2018. He has also served as a spokesperson for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), a national network of volunteers who represent abused and neglected children in court.

Currently residing in Nashville, Wayne continues his tireless work for at-risk foster youth through his music, writing, and keynote speaking. He has performed on the Grand Ole Opry stage 223 times, and his commitment to his mission remains unwavering.