Darlene Shadden
Darlene Shadden, 61, is a singer and entertainer who was born in Rockwood, Tenn. and grew up "all over the South." She has built a long career from her music. In addition to using her voice, Darlene also loves to play the piano and dance. Her other hobbies include cooking and gardening. Darlene has one son and a two-year-old grandson who, she says, "makes everything new again."

"I have been entertaining since I was two years old, shuffling in red-glitter-glued tap shoes, creating a standing ovation," Darlene says. "I think, honestly, that's what happened to me: I loved that energy coming my way!" Darlene's "true stage mom" got her singing on the radio, with hits like "Daddy's Little Girl," "How Much Is That Doggie in the Window," and "Good Ship Lollipop." Eventually, her enjoyment of people made Darlene a natural night club performer. "I loved every minute of it," she says.