How country singer Kellie Pickler transformed pain into success – As a child, music was the one consistent companion for country singer and former “American Idol” contestant Kellie Pickler’s life. Over the years, Pickler, who came in sixth place of the now-canceled reality singing competition back in 2006, has been forthcoming about growing up in an abusive household. “For me, growing up in the living condition I was in, music was the one friend I could count on,” Pickler said in a phone interview. “Music was front and center in my life and helped me get through good times and tough times.” – Read more at PE.com
CMT Next Women of Country: Danielle Bradbery – As a kid in Cypress, Texas, Bradbery was always singing … but mostly in her room. She admits that the day her mom took her to audition for The Voice, she was terrified. But it was meant to be: after a season with Blake Shelton as her coach, Bradbery took home the crown that year. “I still am so ‘pinch me’ because it’s a whole dream,” she said during a recent taping of CMT Next Women of Country Live. “I’ve been in a whirlwind ever since.” Enjoy her performance of “What Are We Doing” from CMT Next Women of Country Live. – Read more at CMT.com
