Kellie Pickler - Shay's Spotlight Artist of the Week

Kellie Pickler gained her notoriety on American Idol, although she didn't win the competition, she did sign with a record album in 2006. Her first album was released that year that featured 'Red High Heels'. She also competed on Dancing with the Stars and won the competition with partner Derek Hough. All of this is a far cry from the dysfunctional childhood she grew up in.Kellie's mom left when she was only 2 years old, leaving Kellie in the care of her grandparents. Her mom returned for a short time and her dad was in and out of jail but custody was eventually given to Kellie's grandparents where she permanently resided.

She competed in beauty pageants and singing competitions, was a cheerleader and even worked a job during high school. In 2005, at the age of 19 she tried out for American Idol and eventually finished in 6th place.

In 2006 she signed a contract with a division of BNA records and released her first album. Two years later her self titled album was released and has since released 3 more albums. Most recently 'The Woman I Am' She married Kyle Jacobs in 2011 and appeared on, and won, Dancing with the Stars in 2013.

She gives much of her time and money to philanthropic causes like St. Jude Children's Hospital, hometown hospitals, Boys & Girls clubs, American Red Cross, AARP and more.