Jean Shepard became one of the most successful artists in country music, beginning with her 1956 album, 'Songs of a Love Affair.' Now, the songstress has detailed her iconic career in a new autobiography, 'Down Through the Years,' which was released last week in conjunction with Nashville's annual CMA Music Fest.

The Country Music Hall of Fame member offers details of her personal and professional life in the 224-page hardback book, through what she describes as the "golden age of country music," as a "personal conversation with every reader of this book."

In addition, numerous artists, including Bill Anderson, Garth Brooks, Reba McEntire, Vince Gill, Del McCoury, Connie Smith, Marty Stuart and Mel Tillis offer commentary. 'Down Through the Years' also includes a foreword by US Senator Steve Faris (Ark.), WSM Grand Ole Opry announcer Eddie Stubbs and Gus Arrendale, President of Springer Mountain Farms chicken, where Shepared serves as a spokesperson.

The 80-year-old certainly had plenty to write about. Besides becoming the first female country music artist to sell more than one million albums, she was also the first to make a color TV commercial and to overdub her voice on recordings.

Shepard also delves into her personal life, including the tragic accident that claimed the life of her husband, Hawkshaw Hawkins, when she was eight months pregnant with their second child. Hawkins was killed in a plane crash that also claimed the lives of Patsy Cline and Cowboy Copas.

'Down Through The Years' is available for purchase here.

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