The artist, Hunter Wolkonowski, better known by her stage name Huntergirl, made a significant impact in 2022 as she secured the second position in the 20th season of American Idol. Hailing from Gruetli-Laager, Tennessee, Wolkonowski’s journey towards success started in Winchester, where she showcased her talents at local venues and engaged in various singing competitions. Upon completing high school, she relocated to Nashville, where she delved into the vibrant club scene while pursuing a degree at Middle Tennessee State University’s Music Business School. By day, she focused on academic excellence, while by night, she dedicated herself to perfecting her musical abilities on-stage. Her dedication bore fruit through multiple wins in prestigious songwriting contests, including consecutive accolades from the Nashville Songwriter Association International. Additionally, she had the honor of performing as an opening act for renowned artists such as Old Dominion, Florida Georgia Line, Kane Brown, Alan Jackson, Trace Adkins, Charlie Daniels, and Sara Evans. Amidst her musical pursuits, Wolkonowski also actively supports various military and veteran organizations, exemplified by her involvement with Freedom Sings USA, Operation Song, Middle Tennessee State University, Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veteran Center, and Soldier’s Child.
At the age of 20, Huntergirl auditioned for American Idol’s 2022 season and impressed the judges to earn a prestigious platinum ticket, propelling her directly into the second round of Hollywood Week. While fellow contestant Noah Thompson claimed the top spot, Wolkonowski’s exceptional talent and dedication secured her the runner-up position. Her musical journey reached a new milestone with the release of her debut EP, ‘One Day,’ in early 2022, featuring the hit single ‘Red Bird’ later that summer. Beyond her musical endeavors, Huntergirl actively champions military causes and supports several veteran organizations, showcasing her commitment to causes like Freedom Sings USA, Operation Song, Middle Tennessee State University, Charlie and Hazel Daniels Veteran Center, and Soldier’s Child. The artist’s passion for music and unwavering support for the military community embody her artistry and values, making Hunter Wolkonowski a prominent figure in the country music scene.