#WomanCrushWednesday | Carly Pearce
The Country Crooner on Doing What She Loves
"I knew singing was what I wanted so I was willing to take a chance."
Women are killing it in the music industry, and song lovers couldn't be happier! In our column, #WomenCrushWednesday, each week, we'll feature an awesome lady whose tunes are blowing up our playlists and ask them about their musical journey.
Country musician Carly Pearce has been buzzed about in the music industry for the past couple of years. She has had a whirlwind of an introduction into the genre, touring with some of the biggest names around and releasing her debut with much success. She spoke with us about how she took a risk and how it paid off to fuel her passion, plus what she has coming up in the future.
How did you become interested in music?
I've truly never known a day that I didn't want to become a country singer. I know that sounds weird, but from the time I could talk, I was singing and putting on little shows (on) a pretend Grand Ole Opry stage.
You dropped out of high school to perform at Dollywood. Why did you make that decision and was it scary?
I was trying to find any way to pursue music, and this felt like a really amazing opportunity to get to sing country music and actually get paid for it. It was my first REAL job. Of course I was scared! I moved at 16 to a completely different state, away from everything I knew, but I knew singing was what I wanted so I was willing to take a chance.
Now, you are the highest charting solo female debut since 2015. How did you break through into the industry?
I've had many ups and downs over the nine years I've lived in Nashville. I had a record deal and got dropped soon after, cleaned Airbnbs, was a nanny, was back up singer for Lucy Hale, acted as my own manager, etc. I pretty much have done whatever I needed to do to continue to pursue my dream. I tried to say yes to every opportunity which ultimately led to me finding the right team.
Can you tell us what you love about country music? Has it always been a part of your life?
Country music is the most authentic music to me. It feels like home and always has. My grandparents were the ones who introduced it to me as a very little girl. The voices, the songs, the stories: it's the truth.
What has your experience been like as a woman in the music industry?
I would be lying if I said there wasn't a period of time that I felt penalized because I was a female, but honestly I've had an amazing introduction into the industry by doing what I do. Not worrying about being a female or male artist...working hard, putting out the best music I can, focusing on the art instead of the stereotypes.
Tell us a little bit about the writing and recording process for your latest album, Every Little Thing.
You only get to make your debut album once. This to me was my "Hey! I'm Carly." I put my heart and soul into this record and hope that people can relate to the transparency and honesty I tried to convey with my stories. This record is truly who I am and what I've been through up to the age of 27. That's a lot of life!
Have you any favorite tracks off the record?
I think my favorites are "Every Little Thing," "Hide the Wine," "If My Name Was Whiskey," and "I Need A Ride Home."
You have been on tour with Luke Bryan. What have you enjoyed about that experience?
Luke is one of the most down-to-earth people in our business. I am so inspired by how humble he is, yet how talented and amazing he is as an artist. I'm so so so thankful to be a part of this tour and know I'm going to learn an unbelievable amount from him!
What is coming up next for you?
New music! I am so very excited to be working on my second record. I have evolved so much in the last year and a half, both professionally and personally. I feel more like "me" and happier than I've ever been. I'm excited for people to hear the evolution.
Follow Carly Pearce on Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
Rachel A.G. Gilman is a writer, a former radio producer, and probably the girl wearing the Kinks shirt. She is the creator of The Rational Creature and suggests you check it out. Also visit her website for more.
Have an artist we should profile? Send a pitch email to Rachel.
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