Santa Clarita Valley performer, Marie Wise-Hawkins continues on the path to country stardom as she prepares to perform at the Country Showdown Regional Finals in Coos Bay, Oregon on Nov. 15.

After winning the Country Showdown California State round held at Knotts Berry Farm, she will compete in Oregon at the Egyptian Theatre as part of her first visit to the Beaver State.

The winner of the night will then be given the opportunity to perform at the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville, a dream of Marie Wise-Hawkins, she said during an on air interview with KHTS AM 1220 Afternoon Drive DJ T. Katz, “I’ve always dreamed of performing there, since I’ve been a little girl.”

The Ryman Auditorium, previously known as the Grand Ole Opry House, has housed big country stars such as Patsy Cline and Garth Brooks.

“I feel super blessed to be representing KHTS, my hometown station.”

Wise-Hawkins grew up in Canyon Country and has dreamed of a career as a country artist since her childhood, having attempted to make her dreams come true at the age of 12 when she first competed in the Country Showdown.

“It’s my passion and I’m super blessed for this opportunity,” she said. “I’ve never made it all the way, to pass the state rounds.”

Wise-Hawkins and her band have been preparing for the show, meeting on a weekly basis to practice songs.

She revealed to T. Katz that she just finished writing a new song with her friend John Statton, called “Summer Showers”, hoping to release it in the spring or summer.

Wise-Hawkins advised others on how to keep shows fresh, who want to follow in her footsteps by inspiring people through the music, “to move the audience and let them have a great time.”

Wise-Hawkins hopes to accomplish her dreams and keep doing what she loves.

You can follow her journey on her website and KHTS AM 1220.

http://youtu.be/C4Ou2PX4WgE?list=UUGEgYoHscO8ZKcaG_BmfEoA