Loretta Lynn's Granddaughter to Audition For American Idol

Many say that although there are exceptions, musical ability is often genetic. As someone who grew up singing with my parents in a Southern Gospel group, I guess I have to agree. Both the Cravens and Weber sides of my family were singers, so a lot of my memories growing up involve music. My Memaw Weber (where I inherited the "Mary" part of my name) even had her a little radio show back in the day where she performed for listeners.

Often on American Idol, the judges will ask the singer auditioning how they started their journey in music and whether or not their upbringing involved other musically inclined family members. This season, one of the contestants will have one heck of a back story. *cue montage of Butcher Holler*

Did You Know You Can Visit Loretta Lynn's Homestead in Butcher Holler?

Yep! That's right, Emmy Rose Russell, granddaughter of the one and only Loretta Lynn will be vying for that golden ticket on the 22nd season of Idol. Her mama, Patsy Russell, and twin Peggy Lynn are Loretta Lynn's youngest children and they are also performers in a duo together.

Getty Images for CMT

Emmy has been singing most of her life and was lucky to share a stage with her grandmother many times. There are videos on YouTube of them together throughout the years and you can watch her grow up on stage. One thing is the same in every video and that is the pride in Loretta's face while watching her sweet girl sing and play guitar. To Emmy, Loretta was just "Memaw." Here is a beautiful song Emmy wrote about her, her music, and how she is continuing her legacy.

You may remember when Emmy performed with Willie Nelson's grandson, Lukas, for CMT's Celebration of Life after the icon's passing. She certainly has what it takes to hold an audience in the palm of her hand as her Memaw did.

You'll get to see her do just that when she auditions for Lionel, Katy, and Luke this coming Sunday, February 25th on ABC or streaming on Hulu. From the looks of the first episode last week, it's gonna be an epic season. Hopefully with some Eastern Kentucky inspiration.

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