Gabby Barrett
Gabby Barrett (born March 5, 2000) is an American country music singer-songwriter known for her powerful vocals and faith-infused songwriting, who rose to national prominence after placing third on the 16th season of American Idol in 2018.[1][2] Born in Munhall, Pennsylvania, as the youngest of six siblings in a musical family, Barrett began performing in church and local talent competitions as a child, eventually auditioning for American Idol after writing and recording demos in Nashville during high school.[1][3] Following her Idol exposure, she signed with Warner Music Nashville and released her debut single "I Hope" in 2020, which became a crossover hit featuring Charlie Puth and topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart for 10 weeks—the longest-running No. 1 by a solo female artist at the time.[2][4] Barrett's debut album, Goldmine (2020), debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and spawned additional hits like "The Good Ones," another No. 1 on Country Airplay, and "Footprints on the Moon."[2][5] Her music often draws from personal experiences, blending traditional country with pop elements, and has earned her multiple accolades, including the CMT Music Award for Female Video of the Year for "The Good Ones," two Billboard Music Awards for Top Country Song and Top Collaboration (both for "I Hope"), and the Academy of Country Music Award for New Female Artist in 2021.[2][6] In 2022, she co-hosted the ACM Awards, becoming the youngest host in the event's history at age 22.[7] On the personal front, Barrett married fellow American Idol contestant Cade Foehner in October 2019, and the couple has three children: daughter Baylah May (born January 2021), son Augustine Boone (born October 2022), and daughter Ivy Josephine (born February 2024).[8][9] Balancing family life with her career, she has openly discussed prioritizing faith and motherhood, which influenced her 2025 releases like the single "Ain't Supposed to Be" and the holiday album Carols and Candlelight (Deluxe), released on November 7, 2025.[10][11] Barrett continues to tour actively, wrapping her 2025 Life I'm Living Tour in October, with her second studio album Chapter & Verse (2024).[12][13]Early life
Family and upbringing
Gabby Barrett was born on March 5, 2000, in Munhall, Pennsylvania, as the youngest of eight children born to parents Blase and Pam Barrett.[14][15] The Barrett family resided in Munhall, a working-class community near Pittsburgh, where they maintained a close-knit household amid everyday challenges. Blase Barrett worked as a maintenance man for Goodwill and took on additional night jobs, such as cleaning apartments, to provide for the large family.[14][16] Pam Barrett managed the home for their eight children, fostering a supportive environment in their modest circumstances. The family's Catholic faith was central to their upbringing, with Gabby attending Serra Catholic High School in nearby McKeesport before transferring to Pennsylvania Cyber Charter School due to bullying.[14][17] Gabby's siblings—sisters Demi, Emily, and Gypsy, and brothers Blasé, Philip, Elijah, and Gabriel—contributed to the lively dynamics of their home life, where strong familial bonds helped navigate financial hardships, including periods when bills went unpaid.[14][18] These experiences in a resilient, faith-oriented family shaped her early years, instilling values of perseverance and togetherness. Her childhood interest in music emerged within this setting, serving as an early precursor to later pursuits.[19]Early musical development
Gabby Barrett began her musical journey at the age of nine, when she joined a gospel choir at a local church near her home in Munhall, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Pittsburgh.[20] This early involvement helped shape her powerful vocal style, as she performed challenging gospel pieces alongside experienced singers.[21] Her father, recognizing her talent, provided strong support by managing her initial performances and encouraging her to pursue music seriously.[22] By age 11, Barrett had transitioned to solo performances, appearing at local venues such as restaurants, grocery store stages, and sports bars in the Pittsburgh area.[23] She also sang at church events and school gatherings, honing her skills through frequent community appearances that built her confidence and local following.[24] These experiences exposed her to diverse audiences and reinforced her passion for live performance, often covering gospel and country songs that resonated with her upbringing.[14] A significant milestone came in 2014 at age 14, when Barrett won the Kean Quest Talent Search, a regional vocal competition organized by the St. Barnabas Health System in Pittsburgh.[25] Performing "Mercy," she impressed judges and audiences, earning first place and her first major recognition outside local circles.[26] This victory marked a turning point, validating her dedication and opening doors to broader performance opportunities in the region.Career
2017–2018: American Idol and immediate aftermath
Barrett auditioned for the sixteenth season of American Idol in Nashville, Tennessee, in late 2017, performing an original composition titled "I Hope" that impressed the judges and secured her advancement to the Hollywood round.[27] The audition aired in March 2018, showcasing her powerful vocals and songwriting ability at age 17.[28] During the competition, Barrett delivered a series of standout performances, including covers of "Meant to Be" by Bebe Rexha featuring Florida Georgia Line during the Top 24 round and "I Hope You Dance" by Lee Ann Womack on Prince tribute night, which highlighted her country roots and emotional delivery.[29] She received guidance from judges Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie, who provided mentorship on stage presence and vocal technique throughout the live shows.[30] Barrett also showcased her versatility with renditions like "My Church" by Maren Morris in the Top 24 and "Last Name" by Carrie Underwood in the Top 5, earning consistent praise for her maturity and range.[31] In the season finale on May 21, 2018, Barrett finished in third place overall, behind winner Maddie Poppe and runner-up Caleb Lee Hutchinson.[32] Following the show, she joined the American Idol Live! Tour, performing alongside the top seven contestants from July to September 2018 across North America, which served as her initial platform for building a fanbase through live country-infused sets.[33] These early post-show appearances, including promotional spots on country radio and small venue shows, laid the groundwork for her professional entry into the music industry.2019–2021: Rise with "I Hope" and Goldmine
Barrett released her debut single "I Hope" independently in January 2019, following her appearance on American Idol.[4] Co-written by Barrett with songwriters Zach Kale and Jon Nite, the track features a vengeful twist on a breakup narrative, blending country roots with pop crossover appeal.[34] Produced by Ross Copperman and Kale, it quickly gained traction, debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard Country Streaming Songs chart and eventually topping the Hot Country Songs chart for a record 27 weeks—the longest reign by a solo female artist.[35] The remix featuring Charlie Puth propelled it to No. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100, marking Barrett's breakthrough into mainstream audiences.[35] The official music video for "I Hope," directed by Taylor Dyer and released on February 7, 2019, visually captures the song's emotional intensity through scenes of Barrett reflecting on betrayal amid symbolic imagery of fire and freedom.[36] By 2021, the single had achieved multi-platinum status, certified 8× Platinum by the RIAA for over eight million units sold in the U.S., underscoring its enduring commercial impact.[37] This success led to Barrett signing with Warner Music Nashville, which re-released the single and positioned her for further growth. On June 19, 2020, Barrett issued her debut studio album Goldmine via Warner Music Nashville, a 13-track collection largely co-written by the artist herself.[5] Produced primarily by Ross Copperman and Zach Kale, the album highlights Barrett's vocal range and themes of love, faith, and resilience, with standout tracks like "The Good Ones"—co-written with Kale, Emily Landis, and Jim McCormick—which became her second No. 1 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart in April 2021.[38] Goldmine debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, earning 20,000 equivalent album units in its first week and setting a record for the most first-week streams by a debut country album.[39] While featuring no guest artists on the standard edition, the project drew from Barrett's personal experiences, including her relationship with husband Cade Foehner, to craft its intimate songwriting. Barrett's rising profile culminated in multiple nominations at the 2021 CMA Awards, where she received four nods, including New Artist of the Year, Female Vocalist of the Year, Single of the Year, and Song of the Year for "The Good Ones."[40] These accolades affirmed her status as a leading new voice in country music during this period, building on the momentum from her Idol exposure.2022–present: Chapter & Verse, expansions, and diversification
In 2023, Barrett released the single "Glory Days" on June 9, serving as the lead track for her sophomore album.[41] The song, co-produced by Ross Copperman, explores themes of nostalgia and personal growth, debuting at No. 28 on the Billboard Country Airplay chart.[42] Building on the momentum from her debut album Goldmine, this release marked Barrett's continued evolution in country music.[43] Barrett's second studio album, Chapter & Verse, arrived on February 2, 2024, via Warner Music Nashville, featuring 14 tracks co-produced by the artist herself alongside collaborators like Copperman.[44] Standout songs include "Glory Days" and "Thank God," highlighting Barrett's blend of heartfelt lyrics with contemporary country production.[45] The album reflects phases of her life and career, emphasizing resilience and introspection, and received praise for its depth and vision in reviews from industry outlets.[46] Expanding into holiday music, Barrett released her first Christmas album, Carols and Candlelight, on November 8, 2024, also through Warner Music Nashville, comprising 11 tracks of traditional carols and original holiday tunes.[47] The project focuses on themes of warmth, faith, and family, with a deluxe edition released on November 7, 2025, adding collaborations such as "Go Tell It on the Mountain" featuring for KING & COUNTRY.[10] This release underscored Barrett's versatility, blending her country roots with festive reverence. In 2025, Barrett released the single "Ain't Supposed to Be" on October 3, a faith-infused track reflecting on unexpected love and divine timing. She announced The Life I'm Living Tour, a 30-date U.S. headlining run that kicked off on June 5 at CMA Fest in Nashville, Tennessee, and concluded October 5 in Ocean City, Maryland.[48] The tour featured setlists mixing her biggest hits like "I Hope" with newer material from Chapter & Verse, marking her first major outing in nearly three years and emphasizing live storytelling.[49] Concurrently, Barrett made her acting debut in the psychological thriller Hurry Up Tomorrow, released May 16, 2025, directed by Trey Edward Shults, where she appears in a supporting role alongside The Weeknd, Jenna Ortega, and Barry Keoghan.[50] Preparation involved intensive script work and on-set immersion to transition from music performance to screen acting, as she shared in promotional interviews.[51] Post-2022, Barrett diversified through notable collaborations, including her holiday duet, and high-profile media appearances such as co-hosting the ACM Awards and CMA Country Christmas specials.[12] These ventures, coupled with her album successes, have solidified her industry impact, positioning her as a multifaceted artist influencing country music's crossover appeal.[52]Personal life
Marriage and family
Gabby Barrett met her future husband, Cade Foehner, during their time as contestants on season 16 of American Idol in 2018, where their initial backstage friendship blossomed into romance after the show concluded.[53][8] Foehner, who finished in fifth place, proposed to Barrett in March 2019 during a surprise trip to Los Angeles, at the same hotel where they first connected post-competition.[54][55] The couple married on October 5, 2019, in an intimate outdoor ceremony at Union Springs Lodge in Garrison, Texas, Foehner's home state, attended by approximately 100 guests.[56][8] The event featured a rustic theme with wooden elements and floral accents, and Barrett walked down the aisle in a custom lace gown designed by Justin Alexander.[57] The ceremony was officiated by Jeremy Vuolo, a friend from the reality TV world and husband of Jinger Duggar, reflecting the couple's shared Christian values.[56] Notable attendees included fellow American Idol season 16 contestants such as Caleb Lee Hutchinson and Catie Turner, along with close family members from both sides.[56][58] Barrett and Foehner welcomed their first child, daughter Baylah May Foehner, on January 18, 2021.[59] Their second child, son Augustine Boone Foehner, arrived on October 27, 2022.[60] The couple's third child, daughter Ivy Josephine Foehner, was born at home on February 17, 2024.[61][62] Residing in a home in Tennessee, Barrett and Foehner prioritize balancing their family life with their music careers, often emphasizing the importance of faith, presence with their children, and mutual support in interviews.[63][64] Barrett has shared that motherhood has reshaped her approach to touring and professional commitments, ensuring family remains central while pursuing her goals in country music.[65][66]Religious beliefs and values
Gabby Barrett was raised in Munhall, Pennsylvania, attending Serra Catholic High School, which reflects her family's Catholic background. Early in her musical development, she performed at Lamb of God Christian Ministries, a non-denominational church, where she sang gospel music and connected with the community through performances. Her faith journey deepened significantly after appearing on the sixteenth season of American Idol in 2018, particularly through her relationship with fellow contestant Cade Foehner, who gifted her a Bible and encouraged her spiritual growth. Barrett has described this period as when she began leaning more intentionally into her Christian beliefs, transitioning toward a stronger evangelical influence. Barrett frequently expresses her faith publicly through her music and personal statements, emphasizing God's guidance in her career. While her country hits like "I Hope" (2019) carry emotional depth often interpreted through a lens of resilience, she has increasingly incorporated explicit spiritual themes, such as in her debut Christian single "Jesus on a Train" (2024), which she sent to Christian radio. On social media and in interviews, Barrett attributes her professional successes and challenges to divine providence, stating that she prioritizes staying rooted in the Bible amid the music industry's pressures. She has collaborated with Christian artists like Phil Wickham on faith-centered tracks, further highlighting her commitment to integrating spirituality into her artistry. Barrett and her family remain actively involved in church activities and Christian music events, including appearances at the GMA Dove Awards and K-LOVE Fan Awards, where she discusses balancing her career with spiritual life. Her views on family, modesty, and industry challenges are framed through her evangelical lens, viewing marriage as a sacred partnership guided by biblical principles. For instance, she has turned down duet opportunities with male artists that she deemed too intimate, citing respect for her husband and adherence to personal boundaries set by her faith. Barrett has noted that the music business tested her convictions, particularly regarding modesty and family roles, but she relies on scripture for strength, often saying no to opportunities that conflict with her values. Their 2019 wedding ceremony in Texas incorporated elements of their shared Christian faith, underscoring its central role in their union.Discography
Studio albums
Gabby Barrett's debut studio album, Goldmine, was released on June 19, 2020, via Warner Music Nashville.[5] The project features 16 tracks, with Barrett co-writing 15 of them, blending country-pop elements with themes of love, heartbreak, and resilience.[67] It debuted at No. 4 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, earning 20,000 equivalent album units in its first week, including 15.98 million on-demand streams—the largest streaming week for a debut country album at the time.[39] The album was later certified gold by the RIAA, reflecting over 500,000 units consumed in the U.S.[68] Critics praised its vocal showcases and crossover appeal, with Variety highlighting Barrett's "vocal power" on revenge anthems like the title track, though noting occasional overproduction.[67] Barrett's sophomore effort, Chapter & Verse, arrived on February 2, 2024, also through Warner Music Nashville.[69] Comprising 14 tracks, the album was co-produced by Barrett and Ross Copperman, emphasizing her increased creative control with nine co-writing credits.[70] It peaked at No. 39 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. Thematically, the record marks an evolution toward personal growth, drawing from Barrett's experiences as a wife and mother of two, exploring faith, family, and self-reflection in songs like "The Chapter" and "Glory Days."[69] Reviews commended its introspective depth, with Holler awarding it a perfect score for Barrett's ability to convey beliefs accessibly through strong melodies and bold songwriting.[71] In November 2024, Barrett released her first holiday album, Carols and Candlelight, via Warner Music Nashville on November 8.[72] The 11-track collection mixes traditional Christmas carols and Advent hymns with modern classics and originals, such as a cover of "I'll Be Home for Christmas" and festive collaborations.[73] Positioned as a seasonal project amid her family-focused phase, it highlights Barrett's vocal range on warm, celebratory tunes like "Go Tell It on the Mountain."[74] Reception has been positive for its enchanting, faith-infused arrangements, with critics noting its safe yet enjoyable approach to holiday traditions.[75]Singles
Gabby Barrett's debut single "I Hope," released in January 2019, marked her breakthrough in country music, achieving crossover success by peaking at number one on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart for a record-breaking 27 weeks and reaching number three on the Billboard Hot 100.[35] The track's remix featuring Charlie Puth, released in November 2020, further propelled its pop appeal, contributing to its certification as 8× Platinum by the RIAA in July 2024.[76] Its enduring popularity established Barrett as a prominent voice in contemporary country, blending heartfelt lyrics with broad commercial viability.[77] Following the success of her debut album Goldmine, Barrett released "The Good Ones" in May 2020, which topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart and peaked at number 19 on the Hot 100.[78] Certified 2× Platinum by the RIAA in 2022, the song highlighted Barrett's ability to craft emotionally resonant ballads that resonated on country radio.[79] In June 2021, "Footprints on the Moon" was issued as the third single from Goldmine, peaking at number 48 on the Country Airplay chart but not entering the Hot Country Songs chart.[80] It has not received RIAA certification to date. Barrett's subsequent singles from the deluxe edition of Goldmine and beyond continued to chart modestly, reflecting her evolving sound. "Glory Days," the lead single from her second studio album Chapter & Verse, arrived on June 12, 2023, and peaked at number 35 on the Hot Country Songs chart while reaching number 21 on Country Airplay.[81] Certified Gold by the RIAA in June 2025, the track captured themes of nostalgia and family, earning praise for its uplifting production.[82] "Pick Me Up," initially a deluxe track on Goldmine released in November 2021 and promoted as a single in 2022, peaked at number 55 on the Hot 100 and number six on Country Airplay in January 2023.[83] It earned Platinum certification from the RIAA in 2023, underscoring Barrett's growing radio presence.[84] By 2024 and into 2025, additional singles from Chapter & Verse such as "Dance Like No One's Watching" and newer releases like "The Easy Part" (August 2025, early charting at number 50 on Country Airplay) and "Ain't Supposed To Be" (October 2025, debuting on digital sales charts) demonstrated Barrett's continued output, though none have matched the certifications of her earlier hits.[81][85]| Title | Release Date | Peak Positions | RIAA Certification |
|---|---|---|---|
| "I Hope" (feat. Charlie Puth remix) | January 2019 (original); November 2020 (remix) | Hot Country Songs: #1 (27 weeks); Hot 100: #3 | 8× Platinum (2024)[76] |
| "The Good Ones" | May 2020 | Country Airplay: #1; Hot 100: #19 | 2× Platinum (2022)[79] |
| "Footprints on the Moon" | June 28, 2021 | Country Airplay: #48 | None |
| "Pick Me Up" | November 2021 (track); February 2022 (single) | Country Airplay: #6; Hot 100: #55 | Platinum (2023)[84] |
| "Glory Days" | June 12, 2023 | Hot Country Songs: #35; Country Airplay: #21 | Gold (2025)[82] |
| "Dance Like No One's Watching" | February 2024 | None | None |
| "The Easy Part" | August 2025 | Country Airplay: #50 (early) | None |
| "Ain't Supposed To Be" | October 2025 | Digital Song Sales: #75 | None |