Probably wasn’t expecting that one while she was out ranching calves.
Jenna Paulette is an up-and-coming star out of Texas, still riding high from the release of her incredible debut album The Girl I Was back in March.
She’s also been touring with Texas country legend Aaron Watson, and joined Watson recently for a cover of Rosanne Cash’s “Seven Year Ache” from his upcoming album Cover Girl.
But Jenna’s making quite a name for herself outside of Texas too. The country music cowgirl recently played at CMA Fest here in Nashville – and now she’s gearing up to step into the iconic circle at the Grand Ole Opry.
Jenna was surprised with the news that she would be making her Opry debut while working calves on her ranch in Texas, when she got a special message from Hailey Whitters:
“Hey cowgirl, it’s Hailey Whitters here hanging at the Opry where I actually first met you a few months back. I’m in dressing room 4, Into the Circle, and we were wondering what you might have going on August 18.
Would you step into the circle and make your Grand Ole Opry debut?”
Obviously Jenna was shocked by the announcement, but happily accepted – as the cows seemingly cheered her on in the background:
“Yes I will Hailey Whitters!”
Check out the video of the special surprise:
Jenna says that it’s a moment she wasn’t sure would ever come:
“I truly didn’t know if this day would ever come…I’ve watched so many artists get this invite and tried not to wonder what it takes to get this honor.
I have done my very best to keep my head down, stay in my lane, and keep writing songs for people like me. Thank you Opry for giving this cowgirl a chance. I won’t let you down. Long live country music, and long live cowboys.”
Well it’s here…and on August 18th, Jenna is going to be stepping into the circle.
And there’s nobody who deserves it more, because if you ask me, country music needs more actual cowboys and cowgirls.
