Maren Morris may not feel like the hero in her hard-hitting song “I Wish I Was,” but she’s definitely the hero in her own story.

And a hero in the story of so many others now, too, thanks to her smash debut single “My Church” and album Hero taking over the airwaves and charts. The world took notice of that enormous, soulful voice coming out of that tiny frame. Now, the Texas native is the star aspiring young artists want to be when they grow up.

She’s definitely a hero -- especially for womankind.

Her sass and independence are heard in almost every lyric and melody, but even the most independent women have moments of vulnerability. Morris is no exception, and she freely shows her softer side in songs like “I Wish I Was,” made even more powerful with this acoustic performance for CMT Next Women of Country Live.

Morris is the real deal -- emphasis on “real.” She’s honest, raw and relatable, like a wise, cool friend there to remind you that you are actually the hero in your own story, too.

Stay tuned for more exclusive Next Women of Country Live performances this month from Lucie Silvas, Mickey Guyton, Brooke Eden, Danielle Bradbery, Jana Kramer, Maggie Rose, Clare Dunn, Kelleigh Bannen, Carly Pearce, Brandy Clark, Ruthie Collins, Lindsay Ell, Courtney Cole, Cassadee Pope and Tara Thompson.