Kristen Kelly: This One’s for the Girls
From her glimmering mini skirt to her bedazzled microphone, Kristen Kelly sparkled at the inaugural Thunder on the Mountain country music festival. Currently on tour with Rascal Flatts, Kelly’s soulful, southern voice croons tales about love, love lost and, well, whiskey. “I may or may not be single thanks to Jack Daniels,” Kelly told the crowd before she belted out her catchy, unreleased tune, “When I Drink Whiskey.” Other crowd pleasers included a beautiful cover of “Angel from Montgomery” and, of course, her debut single “Ex-Old Man,” which had the audience singing and dancing along. “Life ain’t always easy, but it sure is beautiful. Never stop dreaming,” Kelly told the crowd at one point during her hour-long set. It’s pretty clear that the Lorena, Texas, native has experienced her fair share of heartache, as she later addressed the subject of having an ex-husband. Knowing what she’s been through causes her music to speak that much more loudly. A personal favorite Kristen Kelly tune, “He Loves to Make Me Cry,” is a smooth, romantic song that really shows off her range and strong vocals. It’s one of those songs that will make you want to grab your significant other and slow dance. Kelly seems like the kind of girl I’d want to be friends with. She’s genuine, she’s been through it and she’s got attitude. I feel as though she can drink with the boys while wearing heels and lipstick. Her music just makes you feel like – a woman. So, ladies, be sure to give Kristen Kelly a listen. This one’s for you. Don’t worry, boys. You can listen, too.