Who is Gretchen Wilson?

Gretchen Wilson is a multi-platinum American country music artist known for her 2004 hit single 'Redneck Woman.' She has several other popular singles, including 'Here for the Party' and 'All Jacked Up.' She has released six studio albums and has charted twelve singles on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs charts.

Early Life

Gretchen Wilson was born on June 26, 1973 in Pocahontas, Illinois. Her parents were separated when she was still young, and she had to live with a number of different families before she settled with her father in St. Louis. She dropped out of high school at 17 and began working as a bartender while playing in various bands.

Career Beginnings

Wilson signed with Epic Records in 2003 and released her debut album, Here for the Party, in 2004. The album topped the US Billboard 200 and the US Billboard Top Country Albums charts and sold over 5 million copies worldwide. It spawned four singles, including 'Redneck Woman,' which topped the US Billboard Hot Country Songs charts. Its follow-up singles also did well on the charts.

Recent Releases

In 2017, Wilson released her sixth studio album Ready to Get Rowdy. The album includes collaborations with John Rich and Big & Rich. The lead single from the album is 'Summertime Town.' In addition to making music, Wilson also opened a pub called Redneck Riviera in Nashville in 2018.

Awards & Achievements

Wilson has received numerous awards throughout her career, including a Grammy Award for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 2005 and four Academy of Country Music Awards. She was also inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2005.

Personal Life

Wilson has two daughters named Grace and Layla from previous relationships. She currently resides in Nashville, Tennessee.