Award-Winning Songwriter Born in 1976: Hits for Loveless, Combs, and Cyrus
Jessi Alexander, an award-winning songwriter, was born in Jackson, Tennessee, on November 18, 1976. Over the past two decades, she has crafted songs for prominent figures in country music, along with several successful albums as a recording artist.
A Passionate Journey in Music
Alexander’s musical journey began in childhood. Teaching herself to play the piano by ear, she started rewriting lyrics at the age of 11. Her passion for music remained strong into adulthood, where she took to Nashville’s vibrant scene while attending college.
In 1999, Alexander moved to Nashville, determined to succeed as a singer and songwriter. “I had a ton of jobs,” she reflected, recalling her efforts to balance work and music. She ultimately made the decision to leave college in pursuit of her musical dreams.
Initial Breakthroughs
After relocating to Nashville, Alexander sought opportunities in the industry. Although she auditioned to be a backup singer for Reba McEntire, she was hired by Matt King instead. He recognized her songwriting talent and submitted her work to publishers at Warner Chappell Music. This connection led to her first publishing deal.
However, Alexander faced turbulence soon after. King lost his record deal, and her Warner Chappell advocates were dismissed, leaving her without support.
The Climb to Success
Struggles did not deter Alexander. Alongside John Mabe, she co-wrote “The Climb,” which Miley Cyrus released in 2009. The song peaked at No. 4 on the Hot 100, marking a significant milestone in her songwriting career.
Despite this success, Alexander focused on her passion for country music. She produced a remarkable body of work, including co-writing hits that resonated in the country genre.
Notable Contributions to Country Music
Among her notable achievements, Alexander co-wrote “I Drive Your Truck” with Connie Harrington. This song, recorded by Lee Brice, topped the Country Airplay chart and reached No. 6 on the Hot Country Songs chart. It earned both the CMA and ACM Awards for Song of the Year in 2013 and garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Country Song.
In addition to “I Drive Your Truck,” Alexander’s impactful contributions to the genre include:
- “When Love Gets a Hold of You” – Reba McEntire
- “Drink on It” and “Savior’s Shadow” – Blake Shelton
- “Ain’t No Love in Oklahoma” – Luke Combs
The latter song earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Song Written for Visual Media, further cementing her reputation as a leading songwriter in the industry.
Jessi Alexander’s career is a testament to her talent and determination. Her songwriting continues to leave a lasting imprint on country music, highlighting her impactful journey since her birth in 1976.
