Chely Wright

Chely Wright is a country music artist, activist, author, and corporate executive whose career spans multiple decades. Wright first gained recognition as a commercial country recording artist with several charting singles, including the number one hit "Single White Female." She was named Top New Female Vocalist by the Academy of Country Music, and her singles "Shut Up and Drive" and "Single White Female" achieved significant positions on the country charts. Wright has sold more than 1.5 million copies and generated over 10 million digital impressions in the United States.

Beyond her chart success, Wright has contributed to country music as a songwriter, co-writing hits such as "I Can't Sleep," which Clay Walker took to the top 10. She explored new artistic directions with albums like "The Metropolitan Hotel." Her song "The Bumper of My S.U.V." earned a nomination for Best Patriotic Song by the Country Weekly Awards and was performed for U.S. troops abroad. The album "I Am the Rain," produced by Joe Henry, debuted at number 13 on Billboard's Country Album charts.

Wright made history as the first country music star to publicly come out as gay, a milestone she shared in her memoir "Like Me." She discussed her experience on NBC's "The Today Show" and in People magazine, marking a significant moment for LGBTQ visibility in country music. Her album "Lifted Off the Ground," produced by Rodney Crowell, was released alongside her memoir. The documentary film "Wish Me Away," which chronicled her coming out journey, received multiple film festival awards.

Wright's public disclosure marked a turning point in her advocacy for the LGBTQ community. She founded the LikeMe Organization, a nonprofit supporting LGBTQ individuals, and served as vice chair on the board of directors for GLSEN, which promotes safe and inclusive education for LGBTQ youth. Wright frequently speaks on topics such as authenticity, belonging, and resilience, drawing from her personal experiences.

Wright later transitioned into a senior executive role, serving as senior vice president and head of corporate social responsibility and new markets for North America at ISS, a global workplace experience and facility management company. In this capacity, she facilitates client and community partnerships and supports ISS employees and their families worldwide. Wright's career reflects her commitment to country music, LGBTQ advocacy, and corporate leadership.