The country star opens up about disappointment, growth, and finding peace in vulnerability
Country singer Kelsea Ballerini is known for her bright spirit and heartfelt music, but even stars have moments of heartbreak. The 31-year-old artist recently revealed that she cried herself to sleep after leaving this year’s Academy of Country Music Awards without a win — despite receiving multiple nominations.
During a candid moment on her podcast, Ballerini shared that the night was emotionally tough. “I went home, took off my dress, and just cried,” she admitted. “It wasn’t about the trophies. It was just that I wanted to feel seen and valued for what I put into my work.”
A Night Full of Emotions
At the 2025 ACM Awards, Ballerini was nominated in several major categories, including Female Artist of the Year and Album of the Year for her acclaimed project Rolling Up the Welcome Mat. Though she didn’t take home any awards, her live performance drew praise from both fans and fellow artists.
Still, when the spotlight dimmed, the disappointment hit hard. “I had to remind myself that success isn’t only measured by awards,” Ballerini said. “It’s measured by connection — and my fans have given me that in abundance.”
Her honesty struck a chord with listeners, many of whom praised her for being real about the emotional toll that comes with life in the public eye.
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A Reminder That Vulnerability Is Strength
Over the past few years, Kelsea has become one of country music’s most authentic voices. From navigating a public divorce to releasing deeply personal songs, she’s shown that vulnerability can be a superpower.
“I used to hide when I felt small,” she explained. “Now I let myself feel everything — the joy, the sadness, the in-between — because that’s where real art comes from.”
Fans flooded her social media with messages of support, calling her “an inspiration” and “a reminder that it’s okay to not always be okay.”
Looking Ahead: A New Chapter for Kelsea
Despite the emotional night, Ballerini is moving forward with renewed focus. She’s currently working on her next studio album, teasing that it will explore themes of “resilience and rediscovery.”
“I’ve learned that pain and purpose often walk hand in hand,” she said. “The ACMs didn’t go the way I hoped, but maybe it was exactly what I needed to grow.”
With her signature blend of honesty and hope, Kelsea Ballerini continues to prove that even in moments of heartbreak, there’s beauty in being human.