During the early 2000s, Gretchen Wilson spent her days performing in bars and hoping to start a career in country music. And while performing, she happened to catch the eye of John Rich from Big & Rich. Seeing the stardom around Wilson, Rich asked her to work with him. And at that moment, Wilson’s career took off. Over the years that followed, the singer produced several hit songs like “Redneck Woman”, “When I Think About Cheatin’”, and “Homewrecker.” Just a few of her classics, Ella Langley recently honored the country singer when she performed “Here for the Party.”
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Knowing how to entertain a crowd, Langley appeared in high spirits as she worked the audience with “Here for the Party.” Being the life of the party, the performance already gained over 1000 views after being uploaded. Throughout the performance, Langley bounced around the stage, being sure to get the crowd into the song.
Going far beyond just those in attendance, fans online also loved watching Langley honor Wilson. And for some, they felt Langley embraced the 80s era of music. “Looks and sounds a bit like she’s covering an 80s song by The Cult.” Another person agreed, writing, “Sounds like she’s fronting a late 80’s hair metal band (not a bad thing!!).” The comments continued to stack up with the singer receiving high praise.
Gretchen Wilson Almost Turned Away From Country Music
As for Wilson, she might be a top name in country music, but at one time – she felt her life spiraling out of control. While just getting started in the music industry, Wilson learned she was also pregnant. Scared about the future, she called on Rich for support.
Recalling the conversation she had with Rich, she remembered having no idea what to do. “I said, ‘I’m pregnant. ‘I don’t know what to do because I’ve got you all involved in this now… we’ve got the record deal now. We’re in the studio, we’re trying to get things started. And I’m about to just put a big wrench in everything here. And I don’t know what I’m going to do… I probably should just pack up and just go back to Illinois.’”
Not letting her throw her career away, Rich pointed to Loretta Lynn. “If Loretta Lynn can have a career slingin’ five, six, however many babies around the country with her, I’m pretty sure you’ll be able to do it with one.”
Staying true to herself, Wilson embraced a career in music and motherhood. And now, she declared, “I can imagine life without this career. Couldn’t imagine it without her.”
(Photo by Paras Griffin/Getty Images)
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