Jessica Hurt Weaver Heads to Nashville

Jessica Hurt Weaver, a former Madison County Head Start student (class of 1991-1992), is headed to Nashville to chase her dream.  She is the daughter of Bonnie and the deceased Bennie (Randolph) Hurt.

Jessica, wife and mom of two, was named the winner of The Blackbird Country Contest sponsored by Grammy award winning Martina McBride and much-admired journalist Katie Couric, with results revealed on the Katie show in November 2013.

Jessica was selected from among three finalists for a recording session with McBride and her husband audio engineer John McBride in their Blackbird Studio, a prize package worth $25,000, including accommodations.

A 2005 graduate of Madison County High School, Jessica was visibly shocked she won even though she was the clear winner selected by online votes and the studio audience.

“I am speechless,” she said on the Katie show.  “This is amazing. I feel like this is something daddy just had planned out for me,” said the 26-year-old, her voice shaking.

Jessica’s daddy, Bennie Hurt died three years ago in a tragic logging accident. It was to him that she dedicated her winning performance on TV of “Jolene” by Dolly Parton.

Katie Couric asked Martina McBride what it takes for an artist to be successful in the county music business. She responded “When I’m watching a performance, I look for honesty and realness because that is what the audience will see and relate to.”

Jessica got her start in Skyline CAP Head Start at the age of four. We knew she was special and headed for greatness.  All of the children who go through Head Start are better prepared for Kindergarten as well as life.

Congratulations Jessica Hurt Weaver! We are truly fans.

Submitted by Fay Butcher, Family Advocate Manager