Crystal Bowersox Has a Mind for Country and a Mission to Be Embraced by Country Fans

Crystal Bowersox was the runner-up on season nine of 'American Idol,' but she had a dream long before she even thought about being on the show: She wanted to move to Nashville and be involved with the music that her mom had played in their home while the young Bowersox was growing up -- country stars like Trisha Yearwood, Reba McEntire, Patsy Cline and Randy Travis.

Bowersox auditioned for 'Idol' in Chicago, Ill. in front of guest judge Shania Twain who gave her rave reviews, saying she had "raw, natural talent." The Ohio native tells CMT, "I knew I'd get here [Nashville] eventually. I was going to save up money and come down here, but ... I never had enough money to make it happen. 'Idol' came along, and I was like, 'Shoot, why not?'"

In December of 2010, she released her debut album, 'Farmer's Daughter,' and of its 12 tunes, she wrote eight alone and co-wrote two others. Bowersox says there's "a little bit of something for everyone."

Bowersox is also a big fan of Rascal Flatts (whom she's met recently), Sugarland, the Band Perry and Patty Loveless. As for her dream collaboration, no question -- it's Willie Nelson. She says, "I really, really want to work with him at some point."

The "Idol' alum wants country to be where she hangs her dreadlocks. "I hope that country music embraces me because I grew up on it and have a love for the music," Bowersox says.