Julianne Hough: Dancing, Sing, Barbecuing

Julianne Hough performs at the 2008 CMA Music Festival. Photographer: John Russell / CMA.

Jan. 9, 2009 — Julianne Hough rose quickly to prominence when she signed on as a professional dancer for the reality series "Dancing With The Stars." She’s been the partner for two of the celebrities who ended up winning on the show, which won a People’s Choice Award this week, and she’s been able to parlay that fame into a budding career in country music.

Despite the glitz of "Dancing," it’s the real-life scenarios among country performers that most appeal to her.

"What I love about country music is you can stay true to who you are," she told The Appleton Post Crescent. "That’s what turned me on to country music. You feel like Reba McEntire would go hang out with you at a barbecue."

Julianne became part of the genre’s family last year by hitting the road with Brad Paisley, Jewel and Chuck Wicks, who’s now her boyfriend. And Julianne’s slated to tour again beginning May 9 with George Strait.

"To be honest, as a giddy 20-year-old, I’m so excited I can’t wait," she said. "I have like a little child crush on him. He’s the most amazing artist. He’s phenomenally talented and just a class act. I feel like I’m going to be able to learn a lot when I’m on tour."

In the meantime, she’s performing Friday in Nashville for the annual Sound & Speed festival, which brings together country stars and NASCAR drivers. She’ll perform on a bill with Montgomery Gentry and Rodney Atkins at the Sommet Center.

Among the artists slated to sign autographs during the festival on Saturday are Josh Turner, Jason Michael Carroll, Richie McDonald, Dierks Bentley, Randy Houser, Charlie Louvin, Connie Smith, Danielle Peck and members of Diamond Rio. Drivers on hand to meet fans include Dale Earnhardt Jr., Kyle Petty and Michael Waltrip.