Country star Jo Dee Messina had one big hope when she performed two free concerts last weekend: That her fans would make donations to a cause that's close to her heart.

Well, her fans came through — to the happy tune of more than $30,000, all of which will go to the Harvest Hands Community Development Corporation and its efforts to improve life for the citizens of South Nashville, Tennessee.

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After selling more than five million albums, producing nine No. 1 hit singles, and earning various Country Music Association and Academy of Country Music awards, singer/songwriter Jo Dee Messina can look at her life and accomplishments and truly say, “I am.” She’s penned hits like “Heads Carolina, Tails California,” “I’m Alright” and the album, “Burn,” which earned her two grammy award nominations. She’s one of the first women in country to headline a major tour, and in 2010, her sixth studio album, “Unmistakable,” will become her first release in five years. Country Music Pride caught up with Messina as she was grocery shopping, and discussed her upcoming album and the impact family has on her career.

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