From the first moment Kellie Pickler appeared on American Idol, her sweet southern charm and giddy personality captured her audiences’ attention. They have been hangin’ on her every word – spoken or otherwise – ever since. She’s maintained an exhaustive schedule of television appearances, performed twice on the Grand Ole Opry Stage and her album Small Town Girl reached #1 on the Billboard Top Country Album chart. Despite her new found celebrity status, she still manages to carry on in an un-pretentious, down-to-earth, refreshingly likable manner.

I had the chance to speak with Kellie by phone, where she gave some insight into why her fans love and support her like they do. And despite some confusion (mine), I was able to clarify that she did have a chance to ride a few rides (log ride and roller coasters) during her visit to the Mall of America in Minnesota; what she really would like to come back for is the shopping. She also mentioned an upcoming 2007 summer tour with Brad Paisley. What ever her future plans, her fans and I wish her all the best.

I know you’re a big fan of Dolly Parton and you’ve expressed interest in touring with her. Do you plan on paying homage by visiting Dollywood in Tennessee?

Aww, I’d love to go there. I haven’t been there yet but I’d love to.

Have you gotten homesick with all your traveling and time away from your grandfather and little brother?

No, not really. I mean, I love Nashville and I’ve always wanted to live here. This is my home now. I miss my family some, but I’m able to see them when I’m off. It’s really not that bad.

You’ve been recently spotted enjoying the Nashville nightlife with some of the Nashville Predators after attending your first hockey game. Can we safely add hockey to your growing list of favorite sporting events?

It’s my all time favorite now.

You also enjoy NASCAR and football. Who’s your favorite football team?

Well, ya know I’m from Carolina so I’m a big Panthers' fan, but the Titans are growing on me now, too.

Several of the American Idol contestants released albums in 2006, but yours was the first of the Season Six alumni. Is there a sense of competitiveness among you, especially in the country music genre?

No, not at all. I think you are your biggest competition, because you’re your biggest critic. I don’t make it as a competition; I just try to do the best that I can. We are all very happy for each other. It’s nice to watch each other grow, and become successful and follow our dreams. And so we are all very happy for each other. I think it would be very immature to make it a competition, because that’s not what it is.