Published by Cel Manero from Global One Media, Inc.
Kelsea Ballerini has been recognized as part of the 2023 Time100 Next List, joining a distinguished group of innovators, influencers, and artists acknowledged for their emerging global influence.
In this issue, Shania Twain, a renowned figure in the country music world who collaborated with Ballerini on a remix of her song “Hole in the Bottle” in 2020, provided a summary of Ballerini’s remarkable career. Twain recalled their initial meeting at a country music awards show and commended Ballerini’s exceptional talent as a songwriter from a young age. She praised Ballerini’s songwriting as “thought-provoking,” “meaningful,” and “original.”
Twain further commends Kelsea Ballerini, noting that she fearlessly embraces vulnerability and displays remarkable courage in her songwriting. Twain also highlights Ballerini’s qualities as a great friend.
Ballerini’s commitment to authenticity and unflinching honesty is exemplified in her 2023 EP, “Rolling Up the Welcome Mat,” which chronicles her divorce from fellow country artist Morgan Evans. Additionally, Ballerini has explored various creative avenues, such as publishing her own book of poetry titled “Feel Your Way Through,” showcasing her multifaceted artistic talent.
In her tribute to Kelsea Ballerini in Time, Shania Twain commended Ballerini’s decision to perform alongside a group of drag queens at the 2022 CMT Music Awards, a choice that garnered both praise and criticism from viewers.
Twain emphasized Ballerini’s unwavering self-confidence during such moments, stating that Ballerini possesses a profound understanding of her own convictions. She commended Ballerini for consistently leading with love and inclusivity.
In an interview with Time regarding her inclusion in the Time100 Next list, Ballerini highlighted that her performance at the CMT Music Awards coincided with a surge in anti-drag legislation in her home state of Tennessee. She explained that not only was she hosting the CMT Awards, but she also had a performance of a song centered on friendship and standing up for loved ones. This led her to see the CMT stage as a powerful platform to make a bold statement, and CMT fully supported her in doing so.
It’s worth noting that the Time100 Next list has previously recognized country artists; in 2021, Luke Combs was featured.
Furthermore, Kelsea Ballerini recently made her debut performance at the MTV Video Music Awards. Additionally, her EP, “Rolling Up the Welcome Mat,” is nominated for Album of the Year at the 2023 CMA Awards, and Ballerini herself is a nominee for Female Vocalist of the Year at the same awards show.
