K. Michelle Announces First Country Album, Jesus & Whiskey

K. Michelle is officially launching her country music career with her first country album, Jesus & Whiskey, set for release on Oct. 16. The title track is available now.

The singer, who previously built her career in R&B and recently appeared on The Real Housewives of Atlanta, said country music has always been her first love. A Tennessee native, she said she was discouraged from pursuing the genre earlier in her career despite growing up with country music and even taking yodeling lessons as a child.

The nine-song album was produced by Kristian Bush of Sugarland. Michelle said she took her time to ensure the project was ready before releasing it.

She believes the storytelling found in country music connects naturally with her songwriting and says the album reflects her personal journey. Michelle also credited The Real Housewives of Atlanta with giving fans a closer look at her life, including her ongoing health struggles from past silicone injection complications.

Calling herself "a country artist" rather than an R&B singer making a country album, Michelle said she is excited to share the music and hopes to join today's growing country music scene.