Bailey Zimmerman Inks Signature on His Tattoo Artist

By Darren Smith, Arts Reporter – April 23, 2026

In the high-energy world of country music tours, backstage moments often blur the line between performer and crew. Few, however, involve a chart-topping artist picking up a tattoo machine for the first time. Bailey Zimmerman did just that, turning the tables on his longtime tattoo artist in a lighthearted, unforgettable swap.

The rising country star, known for hits like “Rock and a Hard Place” and “Where It Ends,” revealed the story exclusively during an appearance on Taste of Country Nights. “I tattooed my signature onto my tattoo artist,” Zimmerman said with a grin. “Shoutout Mike Stoll—he’s my tattoo artist. He tattoos Morgan Wallen, Hardy…everybody. I met him on the Morgan Wallen tour.”

The playful reversal happened on April 16 in Ohio, just 10 minutes before Zimmerman took the stage. Stoll, who has inked Zimmerman on two previous occasions, had jokingly suggested the idea during past sessions. This time, the singer took him up on the offer, using Stoll’s portable tattoo rig for the quick backstage session.

Zimmerman documented the moment in a viral Instagram reel, humorously captioned “Quitting music to become a tattoo artist 😎.” In the video, he approaches Stoll with the machine, narrates the process, and proudly declares success afterward: “That’s the best signature I probably honestly have. Tattoo artist added to the resume.”

The experience left a lasting impression on the “Fall in Love” singer. “It was good, it was good,” he recalled. “I was like, ‘I understand the concept of giving a tattoo’ and once I figured it out, I was like, ‘Oh, I got this!'” Yet Zimmerman was quick to express newfound admiration for the craft. “It gave me a whole new respect for people that do that professionally and create art. I could barely sign my name.”

Mike Stoll is a respected figure in the industry, with a portfolio that includes work on major country acts. His Instagram showcases intricate pieces on artists like Hardy, highlighting the trust and camaraderie built within touring circles. For Zimmerman, the relationship began on the Morgan Wallen tour and has since evolved into a genuine friendship marked by humor and shared experiences.

This backstage tale highlights the relaxed, familial bonds often formed on the road. Country music and tattoos have long enjoyed a close connection, with many artists proudly displaying ink that tells personal stories of faith, struggle, and success. Zimmerman himself has spoken openly about the meaning behind some of his own tattoos, including pieces tied to his beliefs.

Fans reacted enthusiastically to the reel, praising the singer’s willingness to step outside his comfort zone. Comments ranged from “Bailey can do anything” to lighthearted warnings about not quitting music just yet. The video quickly gained traction across Instagram, TikTok, and Facebook, adding another memorable chapter to Zimmerman’s rapidly growing career.

While Zimmerman has no plans to trade his microphone for a tattoo machine full-time, the moment underscored the accessibility and creativity within tattoo culture. It also served as a reminder of the skill required to produce even a simple signature under pressure—especially with a performance looming.

In an industry where authenticity resonates, stories like this humanize the stars. Zimmerman’s willingness to share the raw, unpolished attempt reflects the down-to-earth persona that has helped him connect with audiences nationwide. As he continues touring and releasing music, fans can expect more such genuine glimpses behind the curtain.

For now, Mike Stoll carries a permanent reminder of the night his client became the artist, if only for a few minutes. And Bailey Zimmerman walks away with a deeper appreciation for the tattoo world’s blend of art, trust, and adrenaline.

The incident joins a growing list of fun celebrity-tattoo crossovers, proving that the bond between musician and ink artist often runs deeper than skin. Whether it’s a fan getting a portrait of their favorite star or a singer inking their own name, these moments celebrate the personal expression that tattoos enable.

Zimmerman’s expanding catalog of hits and his engaging personality continue to draw attention both on and off stage. This latest anecdote only adds to his appeal as an artist who stays relatable amid success.

Darren Smith is an arts journalist, practicing artist, and tattooist with 26+ years of experience across traditional, digital, and body art practices. He covers the intersections of craft, culture, and collecting for ArtChain News.