Carly Pearce

Pearce was born Carly Cristyne Slusser in Taylor Mill, Kentucky{{cite web|title=What it's like to drop out of high school to become a country music star|url=https://finance.yahoo.com/news/carly-pearce-music-career-135910471.html|website=Yahoo!|date=January 15, 2019 |access-date=February 24, 2020 |archive-date=February 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224021432/https://finance.yahoo.com/news/carly-pearce-music-career-135910471.html |url-status=live }} to Todd and Jackie (née Pearce) Slusser.{{cite web|url=https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/local/taylor-mill/2015/04/06/carly-pearce/25374327/|title=Taylor Mill native living her dream in Nashville|last=Reinert|first=Melissa|date=April 6, 2015|work=Cincinnati|access-date=May 7, 2018|archive-date=January 26, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190126232634/https://www.cincinnati.com/story/news/local/taylor-mill/2015/04/06/carly-pearce/25374327/|url-status=live}} Pearce developed interest in country music from her grandparents, who regularly played it at home during her childhood. Her stage name is based on her grandfather's last name.{{cite web|url=https://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-album-interview/|title=The Real Carly Pearce Just Stood the Heck Up: 'I Know Who I Am'|last=Dukes|first=Billy|date=February 14, 2020|work=Taste of Country|access-date=July 18, 2020|archive-date=July 19, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200719151112/https://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-album-interview/|url-status=live}} In a home video saved by her family, Pearce declared that one day she would perform on the Grand Ole Opry. In mid-childhood, she began performing professionally. At age 11, Pearce performed regularly with a bluegrass band. She also performed in church and tent revival shows. At age 14, she performed at a boys prison.{{cite web |last1=Tingle |first1=Lauren |title=Every Little Thing That Made Carly Pearce |url=http://www.cmt.com/news/1785739/every-little-thing-that-made-carly-pearce/ |website=Country Music Television |access-date=February 24, 2020 |archive-date=February 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224021431/http://www.cmt.com/news/1785739/every-little-thing-that-made-carly-pearce/ |url-status=dead }}

At age 16, Pearce auditioned for the "Country Crossroads" show, a program part of the Dollywood theme park. After being offered the job, she convinced her parents to move to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee (the location of Dollywood), and to let her drop out of high school. Reflecting on the experience in 2017, Pearce commented, "Performing at Dollywood was a key part of my journey to finding myself and finding my way."{{cite web|last1=Bowman |first1=Bethany |title=Music Spotlight: Carly Pearce|url=https://tennesseestar.com/2017/11/22/music-spotlight-carly-pearce/ |website=Tennessee Star|date=November 22, 2017|access-date=February 24, 2020|archive-date=February 24, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200224021430/https://tennesseestar.com/2017/11/22/music-spotlight-carly-pearce/ |url-status=live }} While performing at Dollywood, she enrolled in a homeschooling program. The online course allowed Pearce choices to pursue collegiate opportunities post-graduation if she so desired. Pearce commented that the online program was similar to a college course in that her "parents wouldn't have to do anything".{{cite web |last1=Scott |first1=Jason |title=Interview: Carly Pearce digs deep for powerful new single 'Every Little Thing' |url=https://www.axs.com/interview-carly-pearce-digs-deep-for-powerful-new-single-every-little--112065 |website=AXS TV |access-date=February 25, 2020 |archive-date=February 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225024102/https://www.axs.com/interview-carly-pearce-digs-deep-for-powerful-new-single-every-little--112065 |url-status=live }} During her time at the park, Pearce performed at Dollywood five times a week, often in several shows per day. Additionally, she contributed her vocals to compilation albums of bluegrass music.

Pearce moved to Nashville, Tennessee, at age 19 to pursue a country music career. She would later describe her early years in Nashville as similar to a "roller coaster" ride. She signed a developmental deal with Sony Music Nashville in 2012. Pearce's producer was fired from the label. With the producer's termination, Pearce lost her deal with Sony. She later said that experience of having an opportunity and then losing it was difficult. In a 2017 interview with Nash Country Daily, Pearce commented, "Of course there were moments that I wanted to quit music. My condo has seen many tears and heard many prayers at night. I've always known I wanted to do this, and like I said a little earlier, when you open your brain to still staying in the game and waiting it out and fighting and really understanding that this is a business."{{cite web |last1=Casey |first1=Jim |title="Every Little Thing" Singer Carly Pearce Shares 10 Little Things That Shaped Her into Who She Is Today |url=https://www.nashcountrydaily.com/2017/02/17/every-little-thing-singer-carly-pearce-shares-10-little-things-that-shaped-her-into-who-she-is-today/ |website=Nash Country Daily |date=February 17, 2017 |access-date=February 25, 2020 |archive-date=February 25, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200225025406/https://www.nashcountrydaily.com/2017/02/17/every-little-thing-singer-carly-pearce-shares-10-little-things-that-shaped-her-into-who-she-is-today/ |url-status=live }} After losing the opportunity, she took a series of part-time jobs to help make ends meet. Among these jobs was cleaning Airbnb's.{{cite web |last1=Snapp |first1=Lauryn |title=Carly Pearce's Real-Life Cinderella Story |url=https://www.iheart.com/content/2019-05-08-carly-pearces-real-life-cinderella-story/ |website=iHeart Radio |date=May 8, 2019}}

While working part-time jobs, Pearce began networking with other performers and executives in the country music industry. Around this time, she met Pete Fisher, who was the vice president and general manager of the Grand Ole Opry. Fisher provided Pearce the opportunity to perform on the Opry in 2015 (which was before she had a recording contract). From their professional relationship, Fisher informed record producer Busbee about her musical abilities and interests. In 2015, Busbee signed her to a developing artist deal.{{cite magazine |last1=Gugala |first1=Jon |title=How 'Every Little Thing' Singer Carly Pearce Defied Odds With Risky Song |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/how-every-little-thing-singer-carly-pearce-defied-odds-with-risky-song-121750/ |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=August 29, 2017 |access-date=February 27, 2020 |archive-date=February 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200227020700/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/how-every-little-thing-singer-carly-pearce-defied-odds-with-risky-song-121750/ |url-status=live }}

In 2016, Pearce was featured on the track "Wasn't That Drunk" by the country group Josh Abbott Band. Released as a single that year, it peaked at number 37 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart. Her performance on the song allowed Pearce to gain exposure to country radio stations. She also performed with the Josh Abbott Band on television, including a performance on Jimmy Kimmel Live!{{cite web|url=http://www.wideopencountry.com/high-school-dropout-dropped-deals-carly-pearce-ready-shine/|title=How Carly Pearce Went from Teen Dollywood Singer to Budding Country Star|last=Burchard|first=Jeremy|work=Wide Open Country|date=January 31, 2017|access-date=May 9, 2017|archive-date=August 25, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170825183750/http://www.wideopencountry.com/high-school-dropout-dropped-deals-carly-pearce-ready-shine/|url-status=live}} The same year, Pearce was being brought to the attention of multiple Nashville record labels. However, all had declined to sign her. In an interview with Forbes, she recalled being told by several industry professionals to move home or pursue other interests.{{cite web |last1=Black |first1=Lauren |title=How Carly Pearce Became Country Music's New 'It Girl' |url=https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurenjoblack/2018/11/19/how-carly-pearce-became-country-musics-new-it-girl/#32ed803051a1 |website=Forbes |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=June 26, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200626143203/https://www.forbes.com/sites/laurenjoblack/2018/11/19/how-carly-pearce-became-country-musics-new-it-girl/#32ed803051a1 |url-status=live }} The same year, Busbee produced a track co-written by Pearce entitled "Every Little Thing". Released independently, it was picked up for radio airplay on Sirius XM's The Highway channel, where it received widespread recognition. Following its recognition, Pearce was offered multiple recording contracts. She ultimately chose to sign with Big Machine Records.

File:Carly Pearce.jpg, 2017.]]

"Every Little Thing" was officially released as a single to country radio in February 2017. By November, the song had become a major hit, peaking at number five on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart{{cite magazine |title="Every Little Thing" by Carly Pearce chart history: Country songs |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/csi/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229032555/https://www.billboard.com/music/carly-pearce/chart-history/CSI/song/1001551 |url-status=live }} and number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.{{cite magazine |title="Every Little Thing" by Carly Pearce chart history: Country Airplay |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/csa/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229032559/https://www.billboard.com/music/carly-pearce/chart-history/CSA/song/1001551 |url-status=live }} "Every Little Thing" sold over 500,000 copies in the United States, receiving a gold certification from the Recording Industry Association of America.{{cite web |last1=Nicholson |first1=Jessica |title=Carly Pearce's "Every Little Thing" Goes Gold |url=https://musicrow.com/2017/11/carly-pearces-every-little-thing-goes-gold/ |website=Music Row |date=November 7, 2017 |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229032558/https://musicrow.com/2017/11/carly-pearces-every-little-thing-goes-gold/ |url-status=live }} Pearce's debut studio album was released the same year, also named Every Little Thing. The album debuted at number four on the Billboard Top Country Albums list short after its release. It also reached number 32 on the Billboard 200 albums chart.{{cite magazine |title=Every Little Thing (album) chart history: Billboard 200 |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/tlp/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229032557/https://www.billboard.com/music/carly-pearce/chart-history/TLP/song/1049201 |url-status=live }} The album received critical acclaim by music writers and critics. Stephen Thomas Erlewine of AllMusic gave the release four of five stars calling "polished professionalism", but also contrasting it to the bluegrass musical style of earlier career work. In his concluding statement Erlewine commented, "her showbiz and country roots are inextricably entangled, a singer with a feel for the past but an eye for the present."{{cite web |last1=Erlewine |first1=Stephen Thomas |title=Every Little Thing -- Carly Pearce -- Reviews |url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/every-little-thing-mw0003104270 |publisher=AllMusic |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=November 6, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191106221808/https://www.allmusic.com/album/every-little-thing-mw0003104270 |url-status=live }} Jewly Hight of NPR also praised the album, drawing similarities between her vocals and that of artists such as Alison Krauss and Trisha Yearwood.{{cite web |last1=Hight |first1=Jewly |title=Review: Carly Pearce, 'Every Little Thing' |url=https://www.npr.org/2017/10/05/554304539/first-listen-carly-pearce-every-little-thing |publisher=NPR |date=October 5, 2017 |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229033428/https://www.npr.org/2017/10/05/554304539/first-listen-carly-pearce-every-little-thing |url-status=live }}

During this time, Pearce established herself further with further musical projects. This included touring with Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett, and Blake Shelton.{{cite web |title=Carly Pearce brings the "girl power" for Blake Shelton, Luke Bryan, Thomas Rhett and Rascal Flatts |url=http://abcnewsradioonline.com/music-news/2018/5/17/carly-pearce-brings-the-girl-power-for-blake-shelton-luke-br.html |publisher=ABC News |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229035809/http://abcnewsradioonline.com/music-news/2018/5/17/carly-pearce-brings-the-girl-power-for-blake-shelton-luke-br.html |url-status=live }} Her next single release, "Hide the Wine", was spawned from her 2017 album.{{cite web |last1=Fields |first1=Taylor |title=Carly Pearce Explains The Relatable Story Behind "Hide The Wine" |url=https://www.iheart.com/content/2018-07-13-carly-pearce-explains-the-relatable-story-behind-hide-the-wine/ |website=iHeart Radio |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229035811/https://www.iheart.com/content/2018-07-13-carly-pearce-explains-the-relatable-story-behind-hide-the-wine/ |url-status=live }} It became Pearce's second major hit, reaching number 13 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in 2018.{{cite magazine |title="Hide the Wine" chart history: Country Airplay |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/csa/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229032607/https://www.billboard.com/music/carly-pearce/chart-history/CSA/song/1049225 |url-status=live }} The same year, she issued a single that was to be the lead release of her upcoming second studio album. Entitled "Closer to You", the song was released in November 2018 and reached the top 40 of the Billboard country charts.{{cite magazine |title="Closer to You" chart history: Country Airplay |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/csa/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229032603/https://www.billboard.com/music/carly-pearce/chart-history/CSA/song/1106765 |url-status=live }}

In October 2019, Pearce released a second single from her unreleased second studio album. The song, "I Hope You're Happy Now", was a duet with country artist Lee Brice.{{cite web|url=http://www.nashcountrydaily.com/2019/09/27/carly-pearce-and-lee-brice-team-up-for-powers-new-single-i-hope-youre-happy-now-listen/|title=Carly Pearce and Lee Brice Team Up for Powerful New Single, "I Hope You're Happy Now" [Listen]|first=Jim|last=Casey|date=September 27, 2019|publisher=Nash Country Daily|access-date=September 27, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191129112441/http://www.nashcountrydaily.com/2019/09/27/carly-pearce-and-lee-brice-team-up-for-powers-new-single-i-hope-youre-happy-now-listen/|archive-date=November 29, 2019|url-status=dead}} The song was her second to reach the number one spot on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.{{cite web |last1=Bonaguro |first1=Alison |title=Carly Pearce Reveals How "I Hope You're Happy Now" Really Ended |url=http://www.cmt.com/news/1822107/carly-pearce-reveals-how-i-hope-youre-happy-now-really-ended/ |website=Country Music Television |access-date=February 21, 2021 |archive-date=January 21, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210121165054/http://www.cmt.com/news/1822107/carly-pearce-reveals-how-i-hope-youre-happy-now-really-ended/ |url-status=dead }} After taking time to marry singer Michael Ray,{{cite web|url=https://people.com/country/michael-ray-marries-carly-pearce-wedding-photo/|title=They're Married! Michael Ray and Carly Pearce Tie the Knot in 'Whimsical' Wedding – All the Details|last=Kruh|first=Nancy|date=October 6, 2019|access-date=October 6, 2019|work=People|archive-date=October 7, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191007022823/https://people.com/country/michael-ray-marries-carly-pearce-wedding-photo/|url-status=live}} her self-titled second studio album was issued in February 2020. It would be Busbee's final production project before his death in 2019. It debuted at number six on the Top Country Albums list{{cite magazine |title=Carly Pearce (album) chart history: Top Country Albums |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/clp/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229041020/https://www.billboard.com/music/carly-pearce/chart-history/CLP/song/1189847 |url-status=live }} and number 73 on the Billboard 200.{{cite magazine |title=Carly Pearce chart history: Billboard 200 |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/tlp/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-date=February 29, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229032608/https://www.billboard.com/music/carly-pearce/chart-history/TLP/song/1189847 |url-status=live }} Jason Scott of American Songwriter gave it three of five stars and called the album an example that "illustrates an artist learning, growing, and embracing the good, the bad, and ugly."{{cite web |last1=Scott |first1=Jason |title=Carly Pearce Mines Richer Emotional Depths On Self-Titled Sophomore Album |url=https://americansongwriter.com/carly-pearce-self-titled-album-review/jlscott13gmail-com/ |website=American Songwriter |access-date=March 4, 2020 |archive-date=February 15, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215033244/https://americansongwriter.com/carly-pearce-self-titled-album-review/jlscott13gmail-com/ |url-status=live }}

In June 2020, Pearce revealed that she was recording new music and that her next single will not be a track off of her second album.{{cite web|url=https://www.soundslikenashville.com/news/carly-pearce-new-music-studio-photo/|title=Carly Pearce Returns to the Studio to Record New Music|last=Lenehan Vaughn|first=Grace|date=July 16, 2020|work=Sounds Like Nashville|access-date=July 18, 2020|archive-date=July 18, 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200718094802/https://www.soundslikenashville.com/news/carly-pearce-new-music-studio-photo/|url-status=live}} In September 2020, she released the single, "Next Girl". In February 2021, Pearce released her first extended play collection titled, 29. The album's name was derived from personal setbacks she endured during her twenty ninth year. These events included her divorce from singer, Michael Ray, and the death of her long-time producer, Busbee.{{cite web |last1=Mizoguchi |first1=Karen |title=Carly Pearce Announces EP 29, Honors Late Producer Busbee and Reflects on Michael Ray Divorce |url=https://people.com/country/carly-pearce-announces-new-ep-29/ |website=People |access-date=February 20, 2021 |archive-date=February 17, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210217101647/https://people.com/country/carly-pearce-announces-new-ep-29/ |url-status=live }} The EP received praise from American Songwriter, which called it an "exquisite seven song collection."{{cite web |last1=Despres |first1=Tricia |title=Carly Pearce Serves Up a Worthy Musical Testimony on New EP '29' |url=https://americansongwriter.com/carly-pearce-serves-up-a-worthy-musical-testimony-on-new-ep-29/ |website=American Songwriter |date=February 18, 2021 |access-date=February 20, 2021 |archive-date=February 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210218210819/https://americansongwriter.com/carly-pearce-serves-up-a-worthy-musical-testimony-on-new-ep-29/ |url-status=live }} Rolling Stone noted a "progression" in its seven tracks that ends "in a place of hope."{{cite magazine |last1=Freeman |first1=Jon |title=How Carly Pearce Worked Through Heartbreak and Grief on Her New EP |url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/carly-pearce-new-album-29-divorce-busbee-1130460/ |magazine=Rolling Stone |date=February 19, 2021 |access-date=February 20, 2021 |archive-date=February 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210220075711/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/carly-pearce-new-album-29-divorce-busbee-1130460/ |url-status=live }} Following its release, "Next Girl" reached the top 15 of the Billboard country airplay chart.{{cite magazine |title=Carly Pearce chart history (Country Airplay) |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=April 16, 2022}}

In June 2021, Pearce was invited by Dolly Parton to become a cast member of the Grand Ole Opry.{{cite web |last1=Leimkuehler |first1=Matthew |title=Carly Pearce invited by Dolly Parton to become newest Grand Ole Opry member |url=https://www.tennessean.com/story/entertainment/2021/06/23/dolly-parton-invites-carly-pearce-join-grand-ole-opry/5318030001/ |website=Tennessean |access-date=June 30, 2021}} A month later, she announced the release of her third studio album titled 29: Written in Stone alongside the promotional single "Dear Miss Loretta", a tribute to Loretta Lynn featuring Patty Loveless. The album was a continuation of her 2021 EP.{{cite news |last1=Dowling |first1=Marcus K. |title=Carly Pearce Announces New Album, '29: Written in Stone' |url=http://www.cmt.com/news/1836732/carly-pearce-announces-new-album-29-written-in-stone/ |access-date=September 25, 2021 |work=Country Music Television |date=August 3, 2021 |archive-date=September 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210925013402/http://www.cmt.com/news/1836732/carly-pearce-announces-new-album-29-written-in-stone/ |url-status=dead }} It was officially released in September 2021.{{cite journal |last1=Pearce |first1=Carly |title=29: Written in Stone (CD Liner Notes and Album Information) |journal=Big Machine Records |date=September 17, 2021 |id=3006705}} It reached number nine on the Billboard country albums chart{{cite magazine |title=29 chart history (country albums)|url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/clp/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=October 2, 2021}} and number 83 on the Billboard 200.{{cite magazine |title=29 chart history (Billboard 200) |url=https://www.billboard.com/artist/carly-pearce/chart-history/tlp/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=October 2, 2021}} The disc received positive reviews from critics, including AllMusic, which praised her "vulnerability"{{cite web|last1=Erlewine|first1=Stephen Thomas |title=29: Written in Stone: Carly Pearce|url=https://www.allmusic.com/album/29-written-in-stone-mw0003569504 |publisher=AllMusic|access-date=September 19, 2021 |archive-date=September 19, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210919044012/https://www.allmusic.com/album/29-written-in-stone-mw0003569504 |url-status=live }} and Variety which highlighted its traditional musical sound.{{cite magazine |last1=Willman |first1=Chris |title=Carly Pearce Loses a Wedding Ring and Picks Up a Classic Country Sensibility in '29: Written in Stone': Album Review |journal=Variety |date=September 17, 2021 |url=https://variety.com/2021/music/album-reviews/carly-pearce-29-written-in-stone-album-review-1235067000/ |access-date=September 25, 2021 |archive-date=September 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210925020212/https://variety.com/2021/music/album-reviews/carly-pearce-29-written-in-stone-album-review-1235067000/ |url-status=live }} The disc spawned the 2021 single, "Never Wanted to Be That Girl", a duet with Ashley McBryde.{{cite web |last1=Parry |first1=Alex |title=Chart Action: Carly Pearce, Ashley McBryde Earn Most Added Milestone |url=https://musicrow.com/2021/09/chart-action-carly-pearce-ashley-mcbryde-earn-most-added-milestone/ |website=Music Row |date=September 24, 2021 |access-date=September 25, 2021 |archive-date=September 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210925021941/https://musicrow.com/2021/09/chart-action-carly-pearce-ashley-mcbryde-earn-most-added-milestone/ |url-status=live }} It became Pearce's third single to top the Billboard Country Airplay chart. In October 2022, Pearce headlined two sold-out shows at the Ryman Auditorium.{{cite web | url=https://people.com/country/carly-pearce-headlines-ryman-auditorium/ | title=Carly Pearce Conquers the Mother Church: 'All My Country Music Dreams Are Coming True Tonight' }} The album's third single "What He Didn't Do" reached number one on the Aircheck/Mediabase chart, becoming the first woman in 80 weeks to top the country radio charts with a solo track.{{cite web | url=https://www.allcountrynews.com/post/carly-pearce-celebrates-her-fourth-1-single-with-what-he-didn-t-do | title=Carly Pearce Celebrates Her Fourth #1 Single with "What He Didn't Do" | date=March 27, 2023 }}

In early 2023, Pearce won her first accolade from the Grammy Awards for her performance on "Never Wanted to Be That Girl".{{cite news |last1=Leimkuehler |first1=Matthew |title=Grammys 2023: Carly Pearce and Ashley McBryde make history for women in country music |url=https://www.tennessean.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/02/06/grammys-2023-carly-pearce-ashley-mcbryde-make-history-with-country-win/69875263007/ |access-date=6 February 2023 |work=The Tennessean |date=February 5, 2023}} In March 2023, Pearce's first live album was released titled 29: Written in Stone (Live from Music City). It featured the entirety of her previous album, along with several additional tracks and special guests.{{cite web |last1=Chua |first1=Jeremy |title=Carly Pearce to Drop New Live Album |url=https://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-written-in-stone-music-city-live-album/ |website=Taste of Country |date=February 3, 2023 |access-date=11 February 2023}}{{cite journal |last1=Pearce |first1=Carly |title=29: Written in Stone (Live from Music City) (Liner Notes) |journal=Big Machine Records |date=March 24, 2023 |id=BMCYP0340A (CD); 340 (LP)}} In 2024, Pearce announced the release of her next studio album Hummingbird. The original release was scheduled for June 14,{{cite web |last=Kreps|first=Daniel|title=Carly Pearce Announces New Album Hummingbird by Dropping the Swooning Title Track|url=https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/carly-pearce-hummingbird-new-album-1234978904/|website=Rolling Stone Country|date=March 2024 |access-date=1 March 2024}} but Pearce pushed the release date to June 7 to correspond with CMA Fest.{{cite magazine |last1=Hollabaugh |first1=Lorie |title=Carly Pearce Celebrates Birthday & Surprises Fans By Upping Hummingbird Release Date |magazine=MusicRow |date=April 25, 2024 |url=https://musicrow.com/2024/04/carly-pearce-celebrates-birthday-surprises-fans-by-upping-hummingbird-release-date/ |access-date=27 April 2024}} Hummingbird rose to number 31 on the US country albums chart.{{cite magazine |title=Top Country Albums: June 22, 2024 |url=https://www.billboard.com/charts/country-albums/2024-06-22/ |magazine=Billboard |access-date=9 July 2024}} Its lead single "We Don't Fight Anymore" (featuring harmony vocals from Chris Stapleton),{{cite web |last1=Dukes |first1=Billy |title=Pearce's New Chapter Begins W/ Chris Stapleton, We Don't Fight Anymore |url=https://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-chris-stapleton-we-dont-fight-anymore/ |website=Taste of Country |date=16 June 2023 |access-date=2 July 2023}} reached the US country top ten in 2024. A deluxe edition of the album, titled Hummingbird: No Rain, No Flowers, was released on March 14, 2025.{{Cite web |last=Cantrell |first=L. B. |date=2025-02-21 |title=Carly Pearce To Release Deluxe Version Of Critically-Acclaimed Album 'Hummingbird' |url=https://musicrow.com/2025/02/carly-pearce-to-release-deluxe-version-of-critically-acclaimed-album-hummingbird/ |access-date=2025-05-19 |website=MusicRow.com |language=en-US}}

Pearce's musical style is rooted in the contemporary country and bluegrass genres. Her musical experiences included performing as part of a bluegrass band. These early performances influenced the style she would later create. Pearce has also credited notable bluegrass artists for their influence on her. This includes Alison Krauss, Ricky Skaggs, and Rhonda Vincent.{{cite web |last1=Ladd |first1=Olivia |title=Carly Pearce Builds Her Confidence with 'Closer to You' |url=https://theboot.com/carly-pearce-closer-to-you-interview/ |website=The Boot |date=November 2, 2018 |access-date=March 8, 2020 |archive-date=August 9, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200809001202/https://theboot.com/carly-pearce-closer-to-you-interview/ |url-status=live }} Pearce's music has also been described as having elements of contemporary country. When reviewing her 2017 studio album, AllMusic's Stephen Thomas Erlewine noted that it "still bears all the hallmarks of contemporary country production. It's crisp and nimble, using electronic and R&B as flair that accentuates the songs." In Taste of Country{{'s}} review of Pearce's 2017 album, it was mentioned that several album tracks (such as "Catch Fire") were "pop-leaning" in their sound.{{cite web |last1=Houghton |first1=Cillea |title=Album Spotlight: Carly Pearce Every Little Thing |url=https://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-every-little-thing-album-review/ |website=Taste of Country |date=October 13, 2017 |access-date=March 8, 2020 |archive-date=February 14, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180214073330/http://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-every-little-thing-album-review/ |url-status=live }}

In addition to bluegrass performers, Pearce has also been inspired by contemporary country artists. She has credited "late 1990s" female artists as major influences, notably Shania Twain and Trisha Yearwood.{{cite web |last1=Rowe |first1=Olivia |title=Exclusive: Carly Pearce Shares the Journey Behind Her Music |url=https://popculture.com/country-music/2017/09/25/carly-pearce-every-little-thing-country-music/ |website=Pop Culture |access-date=March 8, 2020 |archive-date=October 2, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171002060945/http://popculture.com/country-music/2017/09/25/carly-pearce-every-little-thing-country-music/ |url-status=live }} Pearce was also inspired by the career decisions of female country artists, including Faith Hill. In an interview with Good Morning America, Pearce commented that she wanted her career choices to resemble Hill's: "I really want to be like what Faith Hill was to our genre back then. I love country music so much, and I wanted to do a little bit of that retro, cowhide, kind of throwback to the '90s ... but, like, a new spin on it."{{cite web |last1=Hubbard |first1=Stephen |title=Carly Pearce talks being inspired by Faith Hill and husband Michael Ray on second album |url=https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/story/carly-pearce-talks-inspired-faith-hill-husband-michael-68961937 |website=Good Morning America |access-date=March 8, 2020 |archive-date=March 12, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200312095225/https://www.goodmorningamerica.com/culture/story/carly-pearce-talks-inspired-faith-hill-husband-michael-68961937 |url-status=live }}

In July 2018, Pearce confirmed that she was dating fellow country singer Michael Ray.{{cite web|url=http://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-michael-ray-dating|title=Carly Pearce and Michael Ray Confirm They're Dating|last=Whitaker|first=Sterling|date=July 19, 2018|access-date=July 20, 2018|work=Taste of Country|archive-date=July 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180719160811/http://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-michael-ray-dating/|url-status=live}} They became engaged on December 19, 2018.{{cite web|url=http://theboot.com/carly-pearce-michael-ray-engaged/|title=Carly Pearce and Michael Ray Are Engaged!|last=Stecker|first=Liv|date=December 22, 2018|access-date=December 22, 2018|work=The Boot|archive-date=July 9, 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190709102549/https://theboot.com/carly-pearce-michael-ray-engaged/|url-status=live}} Ray proposed to Pearce at a beach resort in Tulum, Mexico, alongside Pearce's family who also attended the vacation.{{cite web |last1=Kruh |first1=Nancy |title=Inside Michael Ray's Surprise Proposal to Carly Pearce: The Laughter, Tears and That Ring! |url=https://people.com/country/carly-pearce-michael-ray-engaged-proposal-details/ |website=People |access-date=March 8, 2020 |archive-date=May 14, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200514114031/https://people.com/country/carly-pearce-michael-ray-engaged-proposal-details/ |url-status=live }} The two were married on October 6, 2019, near Nashville, Tennessee. In June 2020, Pearce filed for divorce from Ray after eight months of marriage.{{cite web |last=Kruh |first=Nancy |date=June 22, 2020 |title=Carly Pearce Files for Divorce from Michael Ray After Less Than a Year of Marriage |url=https://people.com/country/carly-pearce-michael-ray-divorce-exclusive/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623044543/https://people.com/country/carly-pearce-michael-ray-divorce-exclusive/ |archive-date=June 23, 2020 |access-date=June 22, 2019 |work=People}}

In 2021, she began dating former Minor League Baseball player Riley King. In June 2023, it was reported they had separated.{{Cite web |title=Carly Pearce Confirms Riley King Breakup: 'We Just Simply Were Not Right for Each Other' (Exclusive) |url=https://people.com/carly-pearce-riley-king-break-up-split-not-right-for-each-other-exclusive-7509451 |access-date=2023-06-08 |website=Peoplemag |language=en}} In the summer of 2023, Pearce began dating drummer B.C. Taylor, the son of late musician B.E. Taylor, who is also a member of her performing band.{{cite web|url=https://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-cma-awards-red-carpet-look-new-boyfriend/|title=Carly Pearce's New Man Isn't Joining Her on the CMAs Red Carpet: 'Flying Solo'|last=Liptak|first=Carena|date=November 8, 2023|access-date=March 3, 2024|work=Taste of Country}}{{cite web|url=https://www.timesonline.com/story/entertainment/local/2018/12/08/a-family-tradition/6746065007/|title=A family tradition|last=Tady|first=Scott|date=December 8, 2018|access-date=March 3, 2024|work=The Times}}

{{main|Carly Pearce discography}}

Studio albums

• Every Little Thing (2017)
• Carly Pearce (2020)
• 29: Written in Stone (2021)
• Hummingbird (2024)

{{main|List of awards and nominations received by Carly Pearce}}

Carly Pearce has received several awards for her work. This includes four from the Academy of Country Music,{{cite web |title=Search winners: Carly Pearce |url=https://www.acmcountry.com/winners?awardTitle=carly+pearce&awardCategory=&awardYear=&actionButton=Submit |website=Academy of Country Music |access-date=March 12, 2022}} three from the Country Music Association{{cite web |title=CMA Awards Past Winners & Nominees: Carly Pearce |url=https://cmaawards.com/past-winners-and-nominees/?appSession=79651PU510B8459G62D6T12RZ1359F75T22ER19GMNEEGDM81YV3RUNW131482552LK1GBM6N41ISXDFPNYF01XOOUGOT8435VQWB65RI5V1TW7562YMX9K39X582T0T |website=Country Music Association Awards |access-date=November 24, 2021}} and one from the Grammy Awards.{{cite web |title=Carly Pearce: Artist |url=https://www.grammy.com/artists/carly-pearce/52045 |website=Grammy Awards |access-date=11 February 2023}}

• Way Back Tour (2019) {{small|(co-headlining with Russell Dickerson)}}{{cite web |last1=Reuter |first1=Annie |title=Carly Pearce Plots 2019 Co-Headlining Tour With Russell Dickerson |url=http://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-russell-dickerson-tour-dates-2019/ |website=Taste of Country |date=November 7, 2018 |access-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219134332/http://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-russell-dickerson-tour-dates-2019/ |url-status=live }}
• The 29 Tour (2021–2022){{cite news |last1=Parton |first1=Chris |title=Carly Pearce Extends Her Headlining 'The 29 Tour' Into 2022 |url=https://www.soundslikenashville.com/news/carly-pearce-extends-her-headlining-the-29-tour-into-2022/ |access-date=January 3, 2022 |work=Sounds Like Nashville |date=December 14, 2021}}
• Country Music Made Me Do It Tour (2023){{cite web|url= https://tasteofcountry.com/carly-pearce-2023-country-music-made-me-do-it-tour-dates/|title=Carly Pearce Sets Country Music Made Me Do It Tour Dates|date=August 7, 2023 |publisher=Taste of Country|access-date=October 2, 2023}}
• Hummingbird World Tour (2024–2025){{cite web|url= https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/carly-pearce-hummingbird-tour-dates-1235074189/|title= Carly Pearce Will Fly Like a 'Hummingbird' on New Tour|publisher=Rolling Stone|accessdate=October 3, 2024}}

• Caliville Tour (2017) supporting Brett Young{{cite web |last1=McDonald |first1=Teddy |title=Carly Pearce on Tour Mate Brett Young: We're A Good Package Deal |url=https://wkml.com/2017/12/08/carly-pearce-on-tour-mate-brett-young-were-a-good-package-deal/ |website=WKML 95.7 Today's Country |date=December 8, 2017 |access-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219134309/https://wkml.com/2017/12/08/carly-pearce-on-tour-mate-brett-young-were-a-good-package-deal/ |url-status=live }}
• Back To Us Tour (2018) supporting Rascal Flatts with Dan + Shay{{cite web |last1=Thompson |first1=Gayle |title=Carly Pearce Wraps Up Back to Us Tour With Rascal Flatts |url=https://popculture.com/country-music/2018/08/20/carly-pearce-wraps-back-to-us-tour-rascal-flatts/ |website=Pop Culture Country |date=August 19, 2018 |access-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219134251/https://popculture.com/country-music/2018/08/20/carly-pearce-wraps-back-to-us-tour-rascal-flatts/ |url-status=live }}
• What Makes You Country Tour (2018) supporting Luke Bryan with Sam Hunt and Jon Pardi{{cite web |last1=Casey |first1=Jim |title=Luke Bryan Extends His "What Makes You Country Tour" With Jon Pardi, Morgan Wallen, Carly Pearce & More |url=http://www.nashcountrydaily.com/2018/01/23/luke-bryan-extends-his-what-makes-you-country-tour-with-jon-pardi-morgan-wallen-carly-pearce-more/ |website=Nash Country Daily |date=January 23, 2018 |access-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-date=December 19, 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181219135827/http://www.nashcountrydaily.com/2018/01/23/luke-bryan-extends-his-what-makes-you-country-tour-with-jon-pardi-morgan-wallen-carly-pearce-more/ |url-status=live }}
• Ride All Night Tour (2019) supporting Jason Aldean with Kane Brown{{cite magazine |title=Jason Aldean Announces 2019 'Ride All Night Tour' with Kane Brown and Carly Pearce |magazine=Music Mayhem |date=January 14, 2019 |url=https://musicmayhemmagazine.com/jason-aldean-announces-2019-ride-all-night-tour-with-kane-brown-and-carly-pearce/ |access-date=January 3, 2022}}
• What A Song Can Do Tour (2021) supporting Lady A{{Cite magazine|url = https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/lady-a-2021-tour-dates-1171421/|title = Lady a Recruits Carly Pearce for 2021 What a Song Can do Tour|magazine = Rolling Stone|date = May 19, 2021|access-date = June 12, 2021|archive-date = May 19, 2021|archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20210519191243/https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-country/lady-a-2021-tour-dates-1171421/|url-status = live}}
• Here and Now Tour (2022) supporting Kenny Chesney with Old Dominion and Dan + Shay{{cite magazine |last1=Hollabaugh |first1=Lorie |title=Dan + Shay, Old Dominion, Carly Pearce To Join Kenny Chesney On 'Here And Now 2022' Tour |magazine=Music Row |date=November 1, 2021 |url=https://musicrow.com/2021/11/dan-shay-old-dominion-carly-pearce-to-join-kenny-chesney-on-here-and-now-2022-tour/ |access-date=January 3, 2022}}
• Back to the Honky Tonk Tour (2023) supporting Blake Shelton{{cite news |last1=Adams |first1=Kirby |title=Kentucky's Carly Pearce on Blake Shelton tour, Chris Stapleton's National Anthem and more |url=https://www.courier-journal.com/story/entertainment/music/2023/02/21/grammy-winner-carly-pearce-joins-blake-shelton-on-tour-in-louisvlile/69894037007/ |access-date=15 June 2024 |work=Louisville Courier Journal |date=February 21, 2023}}
• Standing Room Only Tour (2024) supporting Tim McGraw{{cite magazine |last1=Kaplan |first1=Ilana |title=Tim McGraw Reveals Dates for 'Standing Room Only' Tour with Special Guest Carly Pearce |magazine=People |date=July 28, 2023 |url=https://people.com/tim-mcgraw-announces-2024-standing-room-only-tour-carly-pearce-opens-7567105 |access-date=15 June 2024}}

{{reflist}}

• {{Official website}}
• [https://www.bigmachinelabelgroup.com/artists/carly-pearce-0 Carly Pearce profile] at Big Machine Records
• {{IMDb name}}

{{Carly Pearce}}

{{Navboxes

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{{CMA Female Vocalist of the Year}}

{{Grammy Award for Best Country Duo/Group Performance}}

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{{Grand Ole Opry members}}

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Pearce, Carly}}

Category:1990 births

Category:American women country singers

Category:American country singer-songwriters

Category:Big Machine Records artists

Category:Country musicians from Kentucky

Category:Grammy Award winners

Category:Living people

Category:People from Kenton County, Kentucky

Category:21st-century American singer-songwriters

Category:21st-century American women singers