Second Cup Cafe: Lady Antebellum

Lady Antebellum has kicked up the country desert dust as the one of the best new country acts on the scene, enough so that they're up for two Grammys.

During the summer of 2006, Nashville wasn't the only place bringing the heat: The talented trio's creative juices were sizzling.

That's when Lady Antebellum, made up of Hillary Scott, Charles Kelley and Dave Haywood, formed a contemporary, yet classic country sound with traces of R&B. Their songwriting meshed nicely with their personalities.

They tested the waters by posting demos on MySpace, getting a feel for the public's reaction, and got a warm welcome at their gigs.

Their first single, "Love Don't Live Here Anymore," was an immediate hit, garnering the trio "Top New Group" honors at the 2008 Academy of Country Music (ACM) Awards.

They've made country star history by gracing the stage of the legendary Grand Ole Opry, and have opened for an impressive lineup of artists, including Martina McBride, Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson, Taylor Swift, Josh Turner, Phil Vassar, Rodney Atkins and Little Big Town.

Scott's family roots stem from her parents, Grammy-winning country artist Linda Davis and accomplished musician Lang Scott. With an ear for talent, they discovered Kelley and made a musical match for their daughter.

Haywood, Kelley's childhood friend from Augusta, Ga. and college bud from the University of Georgia, was his co-writer, and adding his talents to the mix was a no-brainer.

Lady Antebellum's musical influences include the Allman Brothers Band, Vince Gill, The Eagles, Keith Urban, Gladys Knight and Travis Tritt.

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