He's played a homewrecker, a legendary rock star, a bully and Taylor Swift's love interest, but Tyler Hilton's only role was sensitive singer-songwriter when he took the stage at the White Mule Saturday night.
Saturday's show was Hilton's first time playing at the White Mule as well as his first show in Columbia.
"Many of my friends had played here before, and I never have, so I'm happy to join them now," Hilton said.
The 28-year-old artist is best known for his recurring role as Chris Keller on the television show "One Tree Hill" as well as playing Elvis Presley in the Johnny Cash biopic "Walk the Line"(2005) and Murphy Bivens in the 2008 film "Charlie Bartlett." He has most recently been seen on the small screen as Reed Durham on the VH1 show "Single Ladies."
Prior to acting, though, Hilton gained fame as a musician. His major-label debut album "The Tracks of Tyler Hilton" was released in 2004 and features the radio hit "When It Comes." Hilton has also recorded several songs for the soundtrack of "One Tree Hill" and various movies.
Hilton took the stage with nothing but a microphone and an acoustic guitar. The tall, skinny musician, who wore Buddy Holly glasses and had mussed hair, could have easily passed for a young Bob Dylan. His sound could best be described as a blend of pop, country and blues.
Prior to the show's start, a White Mule employee reminded the audience that it was "a listening show" and asked audience members to take loud conversations outside. The audience was happy to comply, and Hilton noticed the different, more relaxed atmosphere.
"You guys are very quiet in a cool way," Hilton said. "I just feel like I want to sing to you."
Hilton's show at the White Mule allowed the artist to play songs he hadn't played in a long time, including a track titled "Run Run" that Hilton had only played live once before, as well as new tracks that will be featured on his upcoming January full-length release.
Many of Hilton's songs are about being on tour and the places he has visited. Saturday's show included "Rolling Home" off "The Tracks Of," which Hilton introduced as "a traveling song for traveling folks," and a lesser-known track called "Don't Keep Me Prisoner," which Hilton described as an "if Jack Kerouac was a songwriter" type of song.
Although Hilton has recorded several cover songs throughout his career, he only shared one with the audience on Saturday night. A cover of John Waite's "Missing You" caused several female audience members to swoon, making Hilton giggle at the start of the song.
Hilton's performance felt very genuine. The singer's raw, raspy voice beautifully communicated emotions ranging from heartbreak to happiness. He was physically invested in playing his instrument, tapping his toes and bending his knees for emphasis.
Hilton has mastered the art of being a star while staying approachable and humble. The singer sipped Miller Lite during breaks between songs and made jokes about his nonexistent back-up band, saying, "They look like Kool & the Gang to me," and, "We do this in 'B,' right, guys?"
Hilton also made a point to chat with fans after the show, posing for pictures and signing autographs for anyone who wanted one.
To learn more about Hilton, follow him on Twitter @TylerHilton or visit his Facebook page. Hilton will also be playing at the Visulite Theatre in Charlotte on Oct. 22.