Gretchen Wilson

Gretchen Wilson talks to The Boot about her upcoming album, and explains why she needed to take a break for a few years.

Celebrate the good times!

Wilson says that her 2004 hit single "Redneck Woman" was inspired by Hill's "Breathe" music video.

Her inspiration for the career-making song is surprising.

Gretchen Wilson’s phone keeps buzzing during an interview with Taste of Country. The “Redneck Woman” singer is back in demand since announcing the end of her two-year hiatus, so that means more media, more meetings and definitely more phone calls.

"Rowdy" is the same old Gretchen Wilson, but for her fans that's not such a bad thing. The thick country-rocker is a party song that doesn't lack honesty.

Today we turn our spotlight on an artist who hit the ground running in 2004, with a debut single that not only earned her CMA Awards for Best New Artist and Song of the Year,  but it also earned her a Grammy for Best Female Country Vocal Performance in 2005.

Listen to Gretchen Wilson's new single, "Rowdy."

Gretchen Wilson admits that while her hit song "Redneck Woman" was skyrocketing up the airplay charts she didn't feel like she fit in. Years later she'd tell Taste of Country that at the time, she felt underdressed for a black tie party. It's now clear the guests at that party were happy she injected new energy into their predictable sound.

If you’ve got $1.7 million and are looking for a spacious, rustic mansion where country artists have recorded, Gretchen Wilson has the place for you.

On June 21, 2004, Wilson struck gold -- and platinum.

Shelbie Z showcased her powerful stage presence on American Idol earlier this week. In the Top 24 solo round, she impressed with an edgy cover of Gretchen Wilson's "Work Hard, Play Harder."