Season 5 finalist Kellie Pickler won over the hearts of America as the small town girl who learned many new things as a contestant on American Idol. Kellie was a server on skates at the Sonic Drive-In before becoming an Idol finalist. With her touching backstory and big country voice, Kellie sailed through the competition to sixth place.

After American Idol, Kellie was signed by 19 Recordings/BNA Records. In 2006, Kellie released her first album, “Small Town Girl,” which included the hit single “Red High Heels.” Her music video for “Red High Heels” earned her a “Best Breakthrough Artist Video” nomination for the CMT Video Awards. Kellie performed “Red High Heels” during a Season 7 results show. “Small Town Girl” topped the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and reached No. 9 on the Billboard Top 200. The number of sales of “Small Town Girl” made Kellie the best selling new country solo artist of 2006. Her first record also gave her a nomination for “Top New Female Vocalist” for the 42nd Academy of Country Music Awards.

In 2008, Kellie released her sophomore album, “Kellie Pickler.” This album includes the single “Best Days of Your Life,” which Kellie wrote with Taylor Swift. Kellie performed “Best Days of Your Life” during an American Idol Season 8 results show. At this year’s CMA Awards, Kellie was nominated for “Best New Artist.”

Since April, Kellie opened for Taylor Swift’s “Fearless” tour, and just yesterday, Kellie kicked off her own tour.

Happy Birthday, Kellie Pickler!

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