Can you take us back to the beginning? What are your earliest memories, and how do you think they’ve shaped who you are today?
Some of my earliest memories are growing up in church. My family attended a small Pentecostal church in the mountains of Eastern Kentucky. The music was always so vibrant and upbeat. People were playing tambourines and clapping their hands joyfully, while singing along to all of the hymns. I think that laid a strong foundation for my love for music and definitely shaped me into the artist I am today.
As you reflect on your life, are there any key moments or turning points that stand out to you? What made them significant?
I’ve had many turning points in my life. The greatest one of all though was a couple of years ago when I lost my dad. It changed me forever. My perspective changed. My priorities changed. Everything about me changed. I see him in rainbows and hummingbirds and butterflies. I feel him in the words of the songs that I write from the depths of myself. I hear him in melodies and funny jokes. Losing him has made me appreciate life so much more.
Who were the most influential people in your life, and how have they impacted your journey and development?
There’s so many people I’ve looked up to all throughout my life. So many musical influences that without their music, I may not have even gone down this road. The first one that comes to mind is Reba McEntire. I absolutely fell in love with her when I was a little girl. Her music spoke to me. It wasn’t just the songs she sang, but the way she sang them. Her voice penetrated my heart and my soul and I wanted to be just like her.
What challenges have you faced along the way, and how did you overcome them?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in the music business is being a woman. It’s sad to say, but it is true. I feel like the only way to overcome that is to keep going and keep putting out music that my fans love and pretend that issue doesn’t exist. I do this for the fans anyway!
If you were to pick a theme or a lesson that runs through your life story, what would it be?
The title of my life so far would be “Roller Coaster Ride!” There have been so many ups and downs since the very inception of my career. But I wouldn’t have it any other way, because it has made me a very resilient, strong and determined artist!
Are there specific accomplishments or milestones that you’re particularly proud of, and why do they hold such significance for you?
I think my biggest accomplishments so far would be my two Grammys. Some artists work their entire career to achieve that and I was very blessed early on to be part of a couple of projects that were Grammy winning! I’m so proud of that.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes and aspirations for the next chapter of your life story? What legacy do you want to leave behind?
The legacy I want to leave behind is for people to know that I truly cared and my artistry was truly authentic. There are so many opportunities where you can lose yourself in this business. I have always kept my head on straight and strived to be as real as I possibly can.