Dan + Shay, the country combo that is famous for their emotive songs and sincere lyrics, have left quite an impression in the music world. Their music continues to chart with “Speechless” and “10,000 Hours,” and it speaks to millions. But, it’s their personal lives, notably their relationships with their wives, that have had a major impact on their lives and careers outside of the music.
In this piece, we’ll look at the lives of Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, the women behind them, and how the hardest things in life – like loss — have influenced their journey.
The Love Story of Dan + Shay
Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney both have their own love tales filled with passion, growth and shared aspirations. Their wives, Abby Smyers and Hannah Mooney, have been crucial in shaping who these men are now, as artists and as people.
Dan and Abby Smyers: A Kindness Marriage
Dan Smyers and Abby Law met in 2013 at an animal rescue organization in Nashville and began their relationship. Their friendship was founded on a mutual love of animals and a dedication to making a difference in the world.
A new chapter in their lives began when in November 2016 Dan asked Abby to be his forever on the stunning shores of Waikiki Beach in Hawaii. They had a sunset ceremony in Nashville on May 13, 2017. The wedding was very personal to them and they even included their four beloved dogs Joy, Ghost, Chief and Macaroni, who had become such a big part of their lives.
Abby, a marketing manager and animal-welfare enthusiast, was at her best when Dan was around. She was there for him during the tough times, giving him courage, positivity and a feeling of optimism… Abby continued to support Dan through the tough times and the couple’s relationship deepened. He says she helped him keep his feet on the ground when he felt lost or unsure of his work or life.
The Power of Love: A Different Perspective
Abby also influences Dan in ways other than personal support. Her upbeat view on life inspired some of Dan + Shay’s most famous songs, including the title track of their album, Bigger Houses. The song is about a profound chat between the couple, in which they realised, that even if they might want more, they already have all they needed: love, family and each other.
This change in point of view struck a chord not only with Dan and Abby, but with fans too. The notion of contentment, of finding happiness in the small things and being thankful for what you have, is one that’s grown important to Dan + Shay’s music.
Shay and Hannah Mooney: A Relationship Founded on Trust and Patience
Shay Mooney’s connection with his wife, Hannah Billingsley, is just as remarkable. The pair met in 2015 and married in a private ceremony in August 2016 after a brief romance. They became even closer as parents after they welcomed their son Asher in January of 2017. They added three more kids to their family throughout the years: Ames, Abram and Aubrey.
Like Abby, Hannah has played a big role in Shay’s personal growth. In 2020, Shay also admitted he struggled to stay sober and that Hannah was his rock during that dark time. Her constant support and affection helped him recover control of his life and win his own conflicts.
Shay often compliments Hannah on her strength and patience. “She’s everything I never knew I needed,” he added, realising how much she has helped him be a better guy. Their relationship has been the inspiration for many of Dan + Shay’s songs, including the hit From the Ground Up.
Tragedy Hits: The Agony of Loss
Life hasn’t been easy for Dan and Shay, but they’ve created a strong foundation of love and support for one another. Her most heart-breaking loss was in 2020, when Abby’s mother tragically went away following a fight with cancer. That sorrow changed the couple’s life forever, and Dan, who had always relied on Abby’s strength, was faced with dealing with his own pain, as well as being there for his wife.
Abby and Dan leaned on each other to heal, despite the immense sorrow. Dan was inspired by Abby’s tenacity through this time of bereavement and it pushed them closer together as a marriage. Dan’s music became a means for him to process the grief and to give expression to the intense feelings he was experiencing.
Shay’s mother’s demise was a reminder of how fragile life was. It brought back to him the importance of cherishing time with family and loved ones and of appreciating the support of his own wife, Hannah, during their darkest moments.
A Duo Backed by Family and Love
Dan and Shay’s success has come from the closeness with their wives through all the challenges and heartbreak. They have had their families to help them through life’s obstacles, be it the loss of a loved one, personal struggles or the pressures of celebrity. Dan and Shay’s wives, Abby and Hannah, have been so strong and loving, giving them the firm basis to continue creating music that touches millions of people.
Their lives of love, loss and self-discovery have not only made an impact on their personal lives, but their music as well. Songs like “Speechless” and “10,000 Hours” are a testament to the deep emotions and relationships they have with their wives, depicting love in its purest form.
Music as Therapy
Music has been a therapeutic escape for Dan + Shay as they navigate the complications of life. The duo’s music and performances have been impacted by the love and grief they’ve experienced, and the everlasting support of their wives. Their music is a monument to the power of love and resilience, reminding their followers that even through the darkest situations, there is always hope and strength in the people who support us.
As Dan and Shay continue their careers, their wives will surely continue to inspire their music, fuelling their creativity and keeping them grounded throughout life’s hardships. Their narrative is one of love and perseverance, and of the strong links that tie us together in times of joy and grief.
Conclusion
Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney have experienced tremendous success and personal tragedy in their lives. All the while, their wives Abby and Hannah have been their steady sources of strength and support. Whether it’s grief, personal struggles or just the ordinary obstacles of life, the couples’ strong love for each other has moulded their music and their lives. For Dan and Shay, their wives aren’t just muses to write songs about, they are the foundation of everything they have accomplished. Dan and Shay’s story is a story of love, grief and the healing power of music that continues to inspire us all.
