Miranda Lambert Has a Message for Women in Country Music [Watch]
While accepting the ACM award for Female Vocalist of the Year, Miranda Lambert expressed appreciation for being part of great things happening with women in country music. There are a number of country newcomers who'd argue she's leading the way.
Artists like RaeLynn, Courtney Cole and Taste of Country RISER Aubrie Sellers have all shared stories of how Lambert has impacted their careers in a short amount of time. Lambert pays attention to her hand-chosen opening acts and offers advice when needed. There's a theme, she says.
"It's not really about making this statement that you're a woman and it's harder," Lambert told Taste of Country prior to the 2017 ACM Awards. "It's more about nose-to-the-grindstone and do the work that you believe in. Because that will win."
Sellers has been the most recent recipient of Lambert's candor. The star has known the daughter of Lee Ann Womack since she was 10 years old and appreciates what she's bringing to the format now that she's an adult. Last month they closed a run of dates together on the Highway Vagabond Tour.
"She's really different. She's not afraid to be herself," Lambert says of Sellers. "I feel like that is so important and so unique and I'm proud of her. She has not fallen in her mom's footsteps or her dad or stepdad's, who are all in the music business. She's doing it on her own and I think she's a great girl and a great performer."
For her part, Sellers says she appreciates having someone like Lambert to call a friend. She released her New City Blues album in 2016 and before unveiling it, shared the project with Lambert, tentatively saying, "It's really different." The response was very positive.
"If I learned anything from her it's that if you stick to your guns and stick with it, it will work out in the end," the "Liar Liar" singer says. "It has for her, at least."
"I'm just glad to see females kicking ass these days," Lambert said on Sunday night (April 2) in Las Vegas. "So cheers to all of us girls out there dreaming." Carrie Underwood, Maren Morris, Kelsea Ballerini and Kacey Musgraves were the other nominees for Female Vocalist. With Lambert's help, there is a healthy class of female stars looking for their first hits.
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