Parker McCollum and Wife Share First Family Photos with New Baby

Parker McCollum and his wife, Hallie Ray Light McCollum, have welcomed their first child.

The McCollums shared the joyous news on Instagram on Friday night, August 9, announcing that their son, Major Yancey McCollum, was born on Thursday, August 8. Parker expressed his excitement, saying, “Mom & Dad forever! I love you Hallie Ray and I love our Major Man!”

Earlier this year, the artist known for the hit “To Be Loved By You” had revealed that “Baby M” was on the way. Hallie first shared her pregnancy with a beaming post that read, “God’s little blessing. We love you so much already, Baby M!” Following the announcement, the couple had a gender reveal, confirming they were expecting a “little cowboy.” Hallie has shared beautiful maternity photos throughout her pregnancy, capturing moments like a snapshot in late June marking her eighth month of pregnancy.

During a recent appearance on The Spencer Graves Show, Parker revealed how they chose the name Major. He shared that he was inspired while watching highlights from the Rose Bowl and seeing Major Applewhite, a former Texas quarterback and current South Alabama Football head coach. “I was like, ‘damn, Major McCollum would be sick,’” he recalled.

Parker and Hallie tied the knot in 2022 in Tomball, Texas, Parker’s home state. In a 2021 interview with PEOPLE, Parker opened up about how he felt certain Hallie was the one for him. “There was no backup plan and no hesitation. I didn’t overthink one thing. I was like, ‘It can’t get any better than her.’ There was no doubt in my mind that I was making the right decision. She saved my life in a way. I don’t think I was headed down the right road,” he said. Reflecting on his first year of marriage, Parker noted that quality time was something his wife valued the most, and he learned that spending time with her meant everything.

Parker McCollum is part of a growing list of country artists who have welcomed newborns in 2024. This list also includes first-time parents and others like Kane Brown and Katelyn Brown, Jon Pardi, Gabby Barrett, Jessie James Decker, and Adam Doleac, among others.