Carly Pearce Looks Back on 10-Year Friendship With ‘Real Sister’ Kelsea Ballerini: ‘I’m So Lucky’

Carly Pearce remembers every little thing about those initial hangouts with Kelsea Ballerini.

“I met Kelsea in a female artist songwriter support group,” Pearce, 34, exclusively told Us Weekly before performing at NBC’s Opry 100: A Live Celebration. “That sounds so crazy, but we both were young, aspiring singer-songwriters who found community because someone thought we needed to have a female community in Nashville.”

While Pearce remembers being a little “jealous” of Ballerini, 31, after she secured a record deal, the pair developed a trustworthy bond that has stood the test of time.

“I think that vulnerability and honesty that we both still have bred a friendship in that time, during those early years for both of us that continued as she had her first hit single, and she thought to take me out on the road with her,” Pearce recalled to Us. “She would post about my music and once let me ride her tour bus because I was driving a 12-passenger van and wasn’t getting any sleep for a show.”

These days, Pearce and Ballerini both have secure record deals, are members of the Grand Ole Opry and remain closer than ever as they continue to live out their musical dreams.

In an industry that can turn competitive, the “We Don’t Fight Anymore” singer is grateful she found a great friend early on in her journey.

“I have a lot of acquaintances in this town, and a lot of people will tell you they’re friends with people, and it’s not true,” Pearce — whose latest album Hummingbird: No Rain, No Flowers (Deluxe) is out now — explained. “When I think of Kelsea, that is my true sister in this industry. She has been for 10 years.”

Pearce’s schedule remains jam-packed as she celebrates her latest album release. In addition to performing at the Stagecoach Music Festival in Indio, California, in April, the “I Hope You’re Happy Now” artist will continue traveling for the Hummingbird world tour.

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No matter how busy life gets, however, Pearce said there’s always some time for girl chat.

“We genuinely support each other, talk s— to each other, cry to each other, vent to each other,” Pearce explained about her bond with Ballerini. “She is a confidante that I’m so lucky that I’ve gotten to literally watch her star, and she’s watched mine rise and blossom, and so it’s fun to get to do things together with your friend who understands with one look what you’re thinking.”

Opry 100: A Live Celebration is available to stream now on Peacock.