American Idol 2022 runner-up HunterGirl makes her Grand Ole Opry Debut
Over the weekend, Wheelhouse Records/19 Recordings’ Country singer-songwriter and American Idol alum HunterGirl made her debut at the Grand Ole Opry, prompting a lively standing ovation from the packed-out Opry house – a bucket list wish she’s been dreaming of her whole life.
Delivering a raw and emotional performance of her debut radio single “Ain’t About You” and the unreleased track “Clockworks,” the American Idol 2022 runner-up was just named to CMT’s Next Women of Country.
“I have dreamed of playing at the Grand Ole Opry since I was a little girl,” said HunterGirl in a press statement. “It was a full circle moment getting to step into the circle that night. Singing on that stage felt like becoming a part of something greater than myself.” She added on Instagram, “Thank you guys so much for coming on this journey with me. This was one of the best nights of my life, and I wouldn’t be here without y’all.
On Instagram, HunterGirl wrote alongside a short video clip, “Singing on that stage felt like becoming a part of something greater than myself. Thank you guys so much for coming on this journey with me.”
HunterGirl celebrates honorary professorship
Additionally, Retired Army Lt. General Keith Huber along with Dr. Hilary Miller, Veterans Center Director, and Beverly Keel, Dean College of Media and Entertainment, from HunterGirl’s alma mater of Middle Tennessee State University (MTSU), surprised her onstage with a customized blue flight jacket to celebrate her MTSU honorary professorship and everything she’s done for the university’s Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veterans and Military Center.
Charlie Daniels Jr. watched from the audience as she was honored for her contributions. Having first been connected to the center from her extensive work with veterans through Operation Song, Hunter continues to help veterans tell their stories through songs – a creative therapy she’s very passionate about coming from a military family.
Up next, the talented songstress will be joining Luke Bryan on his 2024 “Mind Of A Country Boy Tour” this summer as well as making her debut at Tortuga Music Festival on April 5 and Faster Horses Festival on July 21.
