Sun Oct 27 12:30:00 UTC 2024: ## Country Star Kelsea Ballerini Moves In With Boyfriend Chase Stokes, Opens Up About Love and Vulnerability on New Album ‘Patterns’

Country music star Kelsea Ballerini is taking a big step in her relationship with boyfriend Chase Stokes, star of the Netflix series “Outer Banks.” The singer revealed in a new interview that she and Stokes are now living together, a detail she subtly hints at in her new song “Baggage” from her latest album “Patterns.”

“Baggage,” which Ballerini describes as an ode to “blissful acceptance,” is one of the standout tracks on “Patterns,” released on October 25. The album sees Ballerini delve into personal themes of healing and rediscovering love after her divorce from singer-songwriter Morgan Evans in 2022.

The album explores Ballerini’s journey of self-discovery and growth, addressing the fear of being “damaged goods” and ultimately embracing her past and the person she’s become. “I’m not going to apologize for the path that’s gotten me here,” she says.

Stokes has been a strong supporter of Ballerini throughout the album’s creation and release, publicly praising her vulnerability and honesty. He even appears in the music video for her song “First Rodeo,” further solidifying their close bond.

“Patterns” follows Ballerini’s 2023 EP “Rolling Up the Welcome Mat,” which garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Country Album. The album marks a turning point for Ballerini, who turned 30 this year and found herself taking stock of her life and relationships.

“I think this thing happens when you turn 30 where you kind of assess your life,” Ballerini shares, adding that the album feels “naked” and raw.

Ballerini will celebrate the album’s release with a sold-out concert at Madison Square Garden on October 29, and will embark on her first-ever headlining arena tour in January.

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