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2018 ‘The Voice’ Winner 18-Year-Old Chevel Shepherd Self-Records, Releases Christmas Album

The winner of 2018’s “The Voice,” Chevel Shepherd wants to bring a little Christmas cheer to country music fans. The 18-year-old musician self-recorded and released her first Christmas album “A Good Ol’ Country Christmas.”

The album releases on Friday, Dec. 11.

Chevel Shepherd Releases Her First Album

“A Good Ol’ Country Christmas” is Shepherd’s debut album. She also recently released “Just Like the Circus,” co-written by Kacey Musgraves. Earlier this year, Shepherd released another song co-written by Musgraves “Everybody’s Got A Story.

Her first foray into the industry came with 2018’s “Broken Hearts.” That tune served as her coronation song following her win in Season 15. The song placed No. 24 on Billboard’s country charts. Shepherd’s new album features her take on several Christmas classics.

In total, the album includes 12-holiday songs. The album features everything from Bill Monroe’s “Christmas Times A Comin” to “When Christmas Comes to Town,” which featured on “The Polar Express.”

“This holiday season, more than any other, feels like one we should all give what we can, and for me, that’s singing,” Shepherd said in a press release. “My family has several Christmas traditions and singing carols has always been a big part. A Good Ol’ Country Christmas reminds me of home, the people who raised me, and the traditions we hold dear.”

Shepherd recorded the songs over two weeks in Durango, Colorado. She also co-produced the album on her independent label Shepherd’s Country Sweetheart. Scott “Scooter” Smith also serves as a co-producer, and ONErpm will distribute the album. Additionally, Shepherd is joined by guitarists Gary Cook and Matt Palmer on the album.

The Country Artist Wins Season 15 of “The Voice”

Despite her country roots, Shepherd chose to be on Kelly Clarkson‘s team over Blake Shelton‘s on the voice. The singer first wowed audiences with a cover of “If I Die Young” by The Band Perry. She ultimately took home the coveted top spot on the show at age 16.

Shepherd considers Loretta Lynn, Reba McEntire, Tanya Tucker and The Chicks to be her musical inspirations.