Miranda Lambert

The fascination with Lambert began in earnest when she was a humble yet feisty runner-up on "Nashville Star" in 2003, standing out as the most independent and least likely of all reality-show contestants. Sony Nashville quickly signed her with the understanding that, even though she was still a teen, she had the moxie and know-how to write many of her own songs. Reflective singles like "Famous in a Small Town" proved her wise beyond her tender years, and rowdy ones like "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend" proved her bold beyond all expectations of just how fresh a country freshman should be. Lambert made history when "Four the Record" debuted at No. 1, making her the first artist in the 47 year history of the Billboard Top Country Albums Chart to have all four of their first four albums debut at that spot. Lambert is country's reigning female vocalist of the year, as bestowed by both the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music. She's won the prized album of the year trophy from both organizations, as well. She received the top country female vocal performance honor at the Grammy Awards for "The House That Built Me." And, lest all her honorifics be so high-minded, she's been named one of People magazine's Most Beautiful People and one of Maxim's Hottest Women of Country.