Many a star has gotten their start in Tennessee, migrating to Nashville, aka Music City, to make a name for themselves. But only a handful of country artists can call themselves Tennessee natives, like the nine stars below.
Kelsea Ballerini – Mascot
“The Voice” judge and country star Kelsea Ballerini was born in Mascot, Tennessee and grew up in Knoxville.
In 2023 when she played the Thompson-Boling Arena at The University of Tennessee, she wrote on Instagram, “Whether it be lyrically like in ‘Half of My Hometown’ or celebrating milestone moments in venues like my high school, the Tennessee theater, or the civic center, it’s always been incredibly important to me to go back to the place that let me go to chase my dream.”
Jelly Roll – Nashville
Jelly Roll, real name Jason DeFord, was born and raised in Nashville, Tennessee, starting out in hip hop before transitioning fully to country.
He’s regularly sold out shows in his hometown, and recently purchased a 500-acre farm in the countryside.
Kenny Chesney – Knoxville
Knoxville born and raised Kenny Chesney has been a country icon for decades, recently earning an induction into The Country Music Hall of Fame.
Dolly Parton – Locust Ridge
Dolly Parton was born in a one-room cabin in Locust Ridge, Tennessee before becoming the icon we know today…