Lady A reflect on how they've grown after 15 years as a band
"The fact that the three of us can still go in a room and be passionate and inspired, that’s the win"
Last updated 29th Jul 2022
It's been fifteen years since Charles Kelley recognised Hillary Scott in a bar in downtown Nashville from MySpace. (That's how long it's been - MySpace!) And when Charles invited Hillary — who was pursuing a solo career at the time — to write with him and his middle school friend, Dave Haywood, the rest was history.
Fast forward to 2022, the country music trio has racked up 3 platinum albums, 9 number one singles, 6 CMAs, 7 Grammy's and 14 ACM Awards.
Elaina D. Smith sat down with the band. 15 years is a long time to stay together, and looking back on when they first started, how are they most proud of how they've changed?
"I'm more empathetic of others." Charles Kelley told Absolute Radio Country. "There was a certain self-centred drive to me that over time having kids and being in band makes you have your ego checked naturally grounds you and is what has kept it together. Our ability to be resilient and to balance this crazy thing we have with our home life. Listen to each other and listen to others."
Hillary Scott said she's proud that she doesn't compare herself to others anymore. "I think healthy competition is beautiful and important and it spurs us all on to be better but I think comparing myself to others has been something I’ve really tried to work on."
"I’m a mother of three daughters who will become women and I want to lead by example by empowering one another. Having a healthy self image is another one I think I will forever be working on but I want to lead my girls in a better direction than even I am now. Equal parts refreshing and terrifying."
"I think our definition of success has changed." Dave Haywood said. "I’m proud of how we look at success more as our relationship, getting along and longevity and still being here. The fact that the three of us can still go in a room and be passionate and inspired, come up with a song we all believe in, that’s the win. Early on, you’re chasing the accolades and recognition and you get to a point where these relationships are going to outlive this stuff and be the things that last.
Lady A's new song, 'Summer State of Mind' is out now. Check out this adorable compilation of home videos edited to the song below!