Members of Little Big Town threw a party for Ell earlier this year when the Canadian-born Ell passed her U.S. citizenship test.
On Friday, Jelly Roll will headline a hometown concert at Nashville's Bridgestone Arena -- and he is using the show to give back to incarcerated youth.
Our 10 favorite sets from the world of country this year, from breakout stars to underground favorites to living legends.
"I am getting better, but I am unable to talk or sing… doctor's orders," she writes.
The Nashville-based Cooper died Tuesday after a fall.
"Even though I'm a stepparent, I take that job very seriously. The kids see me as a very important person in their life," the country singer said.
The winner will be crowned on Tuesday's two-hour episode.
The pink-haired Canadian country superstar performed a medley of hits plus her new single "Waking While Dreaming" & accepts the Music Icon award.
“We found ourselves adding seats in so many markets,” says his manager Clint Higham.
Triple Tigers released “God Gave Me a Girl” to country radio on Nov. 18.