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Alexandra Kay Makes Grand Ole Opry Debut As Independent Artist: “Unbelievably Grateful”

Alexandra Kay: “From coffee covers in the kitchen to the Opry stage.”

Fast-rising star Alexandra Kay has made her Grand Ole Opry debut. 

The “Backroad Therapy” singer stepped into the sacred circle Saturday (Nov. 19) evening as an independent artist. Country singer Mark Wills introduced Kay to the stage, to deliver her 2020 song “I Kinda Don’t.” 

Following the memorable affair, Kay turned to social media to reflect on her career thus far and share why the opportunity holds significant weight. After two failed record deals, Kay began her viral coffee cover series, which turned her into a TikTok sensation. 

It wasn’t long until Kay’s angelic vocals surpassed the walls of her home kitchen, and scored her a spot on Tim McGraw’s 2022 Tour with Russell Dickerson and Brandon Davis

“When I wrote this song [‘I Kinda Don’t’] with @tanaamatz and @ryanrobinette I knew we had something truly special. At a time when I was at the end of my rope…after two failed record deals…a Netflix tv show that wasn’t renewed for a second season and moving back from Los Angeles to my small town in Illinois completely broke I felt like a failure,” Kay recalled in the caption. “I felt that this song was going to be my last and that I had to learn to accept that my dream of doing this for a living would not become reality.”

Kay considers the song “I Kinda Don’t” a blessing from the man upstairs. She continued to thank her devoted fans for believing in her artistry and turning the song into a success. 

“God gifted us this song in the room that day…and you took it and blew it up and showed me that my dream wasn’t dead,” she said. “That I still had so much life to live and Alexandra Kay. When Lexi [Which is what my friends and family call me] wanted to give up…you didn’t let me.” 

The resilient artist added, “Last night I stepped into that circle feeling so many emotions…but the one that overrode the rest was gratitude. I  am unbelievably grateful for you all for continuing to believe in me when I didn’t believe in myself. For showing me that my art matters and for showing me love when I felt undeserving. We did it. Against all odds…we did this together. I love you from the bottom of my heart. Thank you, @opry for having me. I will cherish this moment for the rest of my life.” 

The country community flocked to the comments to congratulate the songstress on the milestone and her well-deserved accomplishments. 

“So proud. So thankful. God is too good, and he was never going to let you stop! This is just the beginning! AK to the moon,” said songwriter Tana Matz, “You have a huge talent and ambition that won’t stop!! We are all here cheering you on and supporting your dream!!! Take it to em!!!” said a follower. “Pure talent and stunning voice. I think the sky’s the limit for you. Congratulations,” added another.  

The short snippet begins with Kay making one of her viral coffee videos and ends with her receiving a standing ovation at the Opry, displaying a full-circle moment. Within the clip, Kay revealed that her previous label wanted her to be more “country pop.” The singer-songwriter refused to cross genres because she believes “country music should tell a story,” leaving the recording giant to pull out of the inked deal. 

Kay received the prestigious invitation in early October, when her parents and manager surprised her with the exciting news at dinner. 

“Did you know Jelly Roll just did his  Opry debut on November 19th of last year? Why is that significant? Why? Why is that significant? Because you’re doing yours November 19th of this year,” said her father. “I really thought I wasn’t gonna get to do that,” she replied while crying. 

Now that Kay has the Opry checked off her bucket list, she’s gearing up for her headlining run. The must-watch act also joined country hitmakers Tracy Lawrence and Clay Walker on the road. For upcoming appearances and tickets, visit alexandrakayofficial.com

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