Meet "The Next GAC Star" Finalist Megan Conner

Megan Conner is a finalist in the 2008 Next GAC Star competition. Visit the Next GAC Star page for more information about the competition and show times.

Congratulations to all of "The Next GAC Star" finalists! Now that they've been chosen, we thought you'd like to know a little bit about them.

Meet Megan Conner:


There's no denying Megan Conner's southern rearing — born in North Carolina and raised in Texas — gave her country roots. As a teen, she indulged in riding horses, oversized belt buckles, spurs and country music. Post-graduation from Baylor University, Megan moved to New York City to pursue her dreams of becoming a singer. Once there, she found success in the fitness industry and became a nationally recognized fitness instructor. After only a few months in the city, Megan was discovered by songwriter and producer Paul Vance ("Itsy Bitsy Teeny Weeny Yellow Polka Dot Bikini" and "Catch a Falling Star"), who helped her rekindle her love for country music. She moved to Nashville to continue the progression of her career as an artist and songwriter. Megan believes if she connects with just one person, her work is a success.

Name: Megan Moore Conner

Hometown/Home State: Greensboro, NC/Granbury, TX

Born: September 20, 1980

Occupation: Singer/Personal trainer

Single or Married: Single

Children: No

Musical style: Energetic, heartfelt, real, sassy?did I mention energetic?!

Musical instruments: Nothing well enough to accompany myself, but a very little piano and guitar

Favorite artists: Miranda Lambert, Keith Urban, James Otto, Bonnie Raitt, Garth Brooks, Dolly Parton, Reba McEntire

Favorite songs to perform: "Something To Talk About," "Strawberry Wine," "Kerosene"

Favorite songs to listen to: "Just Got Started Loving You," "Greyhound Bound For Nowhere," "Boondocks"

First public performance: Age 5, Casa Minana, Ft. Worth, TX

I first knew I wanted to be a singer? When I was 5 years old I started putting on talent shows for my parents or anyone else, for that matter!

Dream singing partner: Jewel

Megan Conner is a finalist in the 2008 Next GAC Star competition. Visit the Next GAC Star page for more information about the competition and show times.

Wants to improve: I always strive to consistently improve and tighten my stage show, and always move forward in my writing.

Greatest strength: My energy and connection to the audience.

Competitive edge: A combination of my songwriting ability, performance passion and stage presence!

Ultimate goal: To hopefully get signed to a record and publishing deal in order to share my music with the world. I want to move people with my music!

Inspired by: Experiences, imagination, God above all and the amazing world we live in. Other people inspire me as well.

What one thing about you would surprise GAC viewers? That I am related to Elvis and that I can do an amazing Cher impression!

What do you do for fun? I work out. I try to find new goals to train for and accomplish, including triathlons and marathons. I also like to shop!

What makes you laugh? My singing dog, my funny friends — and I laugh at myself more than anything.

Greatest triumph of your life: Finishing the Chicago marathon in 2006 in honor of my stepdad and grandfather, who died of liver cancer.

What makes you cry? Losing my stepfather to cancer, seeing other people hurt each other, poverty.

What's the greatest personal hurdle you've overcome in life? My parents' divorce.

Favorite TV show: All of the Food Network shows!

Favorite movie: The Wedding Crashers

Favorite book: The Purpose-Driven Life

Favorite author: Jodi Piccolet

Favorite actor: Gerard Butler

Favorite actress: Meryl Streep

Favorite music website: GACTV.com

Favorite music magazine: I have no idea!

Favorite hobby: Working out

Favorite food: Chocolate

Country music crush: Keith Urban

Megan Conner is a finalist in the 2008 Next GAC Star competition. Visit the Next GAC Star page for more information about the competition and show times.

Person with whom you'd most like to have a meaningful conversation: Oprah

What would you discuss with that person? Her world views and her generous philosophy towards helping others.

Last book you read: Ever After by Karen Kingsbury

Dream vacation: Anywhere tropical! Hawaii or Italy would be good.

Key to happiness: Be honest, be true to who you are, never give up and never settle!

Biggest misconception about you: That I'm a party girl! I have so much energy, people think I like to drink and go out — but nope!

Most embarrassing moment: Yet to happen?

What do you value most in your friends? Honesty, willingness to be there for each other, always supporting each other and that you can be who you are and not have to impress.

Why do you want to win the title, "The Next GAC Star"? Winning the Next GAC Star would open a world of opportunities for me to get my music out there. I would love to show people that someone who tries to live an honest life can be successful in this business. And ultimately, having this opportunity may eventually allow me to help someone else reach their dreams!