In more ways than one, Maddie Poppe has come full circle.
The 26-year-old singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist hailing from humble Clarksville, Iowa, might be best known for taking the win on season 16 of ABC’s “American Idol.” But prior to that, she was simply a sweet, small-town girl, singing songs in the company of her family.
“I am so grateful for all the doors that ‘American Idol’ has opened for me,” Poppe wrote in an email. “The experiences I’ve gotten to be a part of and the connections I’ve made have been some that I never would’ve had if it hadn’t been for the show. As a kid, I always dreamed of doing what I’m doing now, and so I’m really happy and grateful for all I get to do in this industry.”
Now based in Nashville, Poppe will return to her Iowa stomping grounds to perform an intimate show as part of the annual Her Night Out, presented by Her magazine — a product of TH Media — set for 4-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at Dubuque’s Five Flags Center, 405 Main St.
The evening also will include shopping from an assortment of local vendors, a fashion show, a buffet dinner and cash bar, grand prizes from Rhomberg Fur & Leather Gallery and Riddle’s Jewelry, and door prizes.
Nashville attire is encouraged, with prizes for the best dressed individual and group.
Tickets are $50 for general admission or $550 for a girlfriend table.
“I’m always happy to come home to perform in Iowa, mostly because the of people,” Poppe said. “They are always so engaged in the shows and have been so supportive of my music career. And I love to be a part of any female-focused event, I think it’s so important that we keep supporting and empowering each other.”
The show, Poppe said, will include her originally penned tunes and a few familiar favorites
“I’m currently in a transitional phase for what’s next musically for me,” Poppe said. “I’m excited for what’s to come, but I’m not really sure what that holds yet.”
Since her win on “American Idol,” Poppe has released three studio albums — 2016’s self-produced “Songs from the Basement”; her sophomore effort in 2019’s “Whirlwind”; and 2020’s “Christmas from Home,” which brought her to Dubuque’s Grand Opera House for a performance in December 2020.
“Whirlwind” reached No. 2 on the iTunes Pop charts, and her hit single, “Made You Miss,” peaked at No. 19 on the Hot AC Radio charts. Her sentimental ballad, “Not Losing You,” swept radio charts as well.
Poppe had auditioned for NBC’s “The Voice” prior to becoming the next “American Idol,” a place she credited with helping her grow in her art and in her business savvy.
“It was a cool experience,” Poppe said of her experience with the show, in which Lionel Richie described her as having a “storytelling voice,” Katy Perry adding she possessed a “distinctive quality” in her voice and Luke Bryan saying, “I’m not critiquing you, ’cause you got me. I’m saying yes.”
“It really helped me navigate getting thrown into the industry,” Poppe said. “Since then, I’ve gotten thicker skin. I’ve had a lot of help and support. But there definitely are people who don’t have the best interests for you. I’ve grown up pretty fast and learned quickly that you can’t trust everyone.”
Following her “American Idol” win, Poppe appeared on multiple TV shows, including “Jimmy Kimmel Live,” “Live! with Kelly & Ryan” and the 2018 Radio Disney Music Awards. She also performed at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles, the Special Olympics and the CMA Fest in Nashville.
But there is something sweet about coming home.
“I’m very thankful for all the love and support and for people coming together,” Poppe said. “I’m happy we could make this Iowa thing happen.”
Megan Gloss writes for the Telegraph Herald.
