Lauren Alaina Moving to Nashville

Now that Lauren Alaina is a high school graduate from Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe High, she's ready to exercise her newfound independence, and the first step is moving out of the house -- and out of her home state of Georgia. 

It should come as no surprise that the 'American Idol' runner-up is heading to Music City. "I’m actually moving to Nashville," she tells Big Frog 104. "I’m 18 and still attached to my mama’s hip, but if I’m going to take this career seriously and want the things that I want to happen, I gotta be where it is.  Everything happens around Nashville so that’s the place I need to be."

It sounds like the 18-year-old has really thought things through, and wants to keep on advancing her country music career -- even if it's scary. Don't think for a minute that the 'Barefoot and Buckwild' singer is completely confident about this big move. She admits, "It’s scary but I’m going to do it. I might just have to put my mom and dad in my suitcase."

Now that Alaina's focusing on a sophomore album, it only makes sense that she wants to be surrounded by the best in the music industry. It's a bold and brave move for someone who's still in her teens.

Not only has she toured with some of country's favorite stars -- like Jason Aldean and Sugarland -- she was also named New Artist of the Year at the American Country Awards. Living on her own? Sounds like it'll be pretty easy for this accomplished country songstress.