Amanda Carol “Mandy” Barnett was born and raised in Crossville, Tennessee. The small town girl would eventually become a world-class vocalist and actress. She has been called “a song’s best friend” for her skill and devotion to classic country, R&B and popular standards. When Barnett was 18, Gaylord Entertainment (then-parent company of the Grand Ole Opry and Ryman Auditorium) gave her the role of Patsy Cline in the Ryman’s major musical production “Always…Patsy Cline,” which opened to rave reviews and packed audiences. Barnett is the only actress to have played the title role on the historic stage where Cline’s career began. Barnett has released numerous albums and has graced movie and television soundtracks and multi-artist music compilations. She continues to record, produce and perform.

After paying a visit to  Barnett’s Tennessee Music Pathways marker, explore Crossville, hailed as the golf capital of Tennessee. Take a swing at Cumberland Mountain State Park‘s Bear Trace, one of the most sought-after sites among the Jack Nicklaus designed courses in Tennessee. The park also has rustic, Timber Lodge and deluxe cabins available as well as camp sites so you can extend your stay. Have a taste of Tennessee at Stonehaus Winery, Tennessee’s only winery with statewide distribution. And, catch a performance at the Cumberland County Playhouse, one of the 10 largest theaters in rural America.