In the news|January 07, 2014 09:22 EST
Francesca Battistelli Grand Ole Opry Debut a 'Night to Remember!!!' the Singer Says (PHOTOS)
Francesca Battistelli made her debut over the weekend at the legendary Grand Ole Opry where she described the experience as a "night to remember."
For artists in the music capital of the south, Nashville, performing at the Grand Ole Opry means you have "made it." The Grand Ole Opry is a weekly music stage concert in Nashville, Tennessee that has showcased the biggest stars in music history such as Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire, Garth Brooks, and many more.
Contemporary Christian artist Francesca Battisteli was also granted that honor this weekend.
Battisteli was born in New York City, but raised in Florida, and grew up in a musical family. At the age of 15, she was a member of an all-girl mainstream pop group in Orlando called Bella. After the group split, Francesca picked up a guitar and started writing her own songs with her faith now being the topic of her lyrics.
In 2008, Battisteli released her debut album My Paper Heart, which featured popular tune "Free To Be Me." The album secured her a nomination and a win at the Gospel Music Association Dove Award's for "Female Vocalist of the Year."
Sales of her debut album exceeded 500,000 with digital sales of over 775,000 tracks. It was certified Gold and was the first debut album from a CCM artist in nearly a decade to receive that honor.
Following her debut, the singer released Hundred More Years in March 2011. Since then she has obtained several tours, a Pepsi endorsement by featuring her image on one of their cans, and released a Christmas album.
Kicking the New Year off, the singer was granted the opportunity to perform at the legendary Grand Ole Opry along with Riders In The Sky and Del McCoury Band also performing that night.
The Grammy nominated singer expressed her excitement on the big day over her Facebook page. "Today is the day!!! So excited to make my Grand Ole Opry debut this evening!" she gratefully posted.
She documented her experience by posting pictures before the concert, back stage, and then after with her entire band. She quoted the night as a "Night to remember!!!" Fans sent her congratulatory messages on her social media page, as everyone was happy to see a Christian artist on the bill at the Opry.
