Alana Springsteen's socials often give the impression of a rock-star lifestyle on the road. But as she tells PEOPLE, not everything is as it seems. She shares insights into her life with her band and the challenges they've faced together.

Building a Family Environment

After a monumental year with numerous firsts, including her CMA Awards red carpet debut, Springsteen emphasizes the importance of the family environment she's built with her band. "We have each other's backs," she says. "We've been through a lot together and it really does feel like a family."During a major setback in October when their tour bus caught on fire, destroying their gear and personal items, Springsteen saw the unity within the team. "It was a scary situation, but it brought us closer. When you go through something like that, you come out stronger. I saw how incredible our community is with artist friends offering their gear."Though they had to cancel several tour dates in Texas, they were able to get back on the road the following week. "Getting back on stage was healing. We were grateful that God was watching out for us."

Taking Time Off and Reflecting

Until March when she goes to Australia for some shows, Springsteen has time off to spend at home. "I'm ready to get back out there as I love touring, but I'm also learning to slow down and rest. The transition from constantly on the go to being at home and doing domestic things is strange."She emphasizes the importance of being present and creating peace in the midst of chaos. "This year has been wild in the best way. I've learned a lot about myself and had incredible experiences. This time of year is special for slowing down, reflecting, and getting ready for a new chapter."

Introducing a New Era

Springsteen gave a taste of her next era with the release of "Cowboy" and "Hold My Beer" on Oct. 18. "I wanted to introduce this new chapter to my fans with these two songs. 'Cowboy' is rooted in truth and goes deep into my past of falling for the wrong people. I didn't know myself and was looking for validation in the wrong places."As for the cowboy in question, "We are not in touch anymore. No relationship is perfect, but I'm not settling." "Hold My Beer" is the confident side of her, inspired by her strong mother. "She taught me not to take no for an answer and that I can do anything if I put my mind to it."

Growing Up in Music

Springsteen was raised in Virginia Beach, Va., with both grandfathers being pastors. Growing up in that environment, constantly on stage with her dad who led worship and learning harmonies from those around her, music was in her blood. Her dad loved all kinds of music, from Michael Jackson to Shania Twain to Van Halen.At 9, she wrote her first song, "Fairy Tale," which was about her parents' love story. At 10, she moved to Nashville with her family to pursue her music dreams. By 14, she had her first publishing deal."I started writing songs five days a week like a job. Learning from hit songwriters, I realized the importance of communicating your truth in the most honest way. That's when I started to connect with people and find my community."

Debut Album and Tour Highlights

In August 2023, Springsteen released her debut album Twenty Something, with three installments: Messing It Up, Figuring It Out, and Getting It Right. Hearing fans sing her lyrics back on tour was healing. "It's like a therapy session. A lot of those songs were very personal."For example, "Chameleon" was inspired by her mom's nickname for her. "My whole life, I've been a shapeshifter, learning to fit others' molds. Singing that song live is one of my favorite moments as I see girls connecting with it."The album also features hits like "Ghost in My Guitar" featuring Chris Stapleton and "Goodbye Looks Good on You" featuring Mitchell Tenpenny. Over the summer, she was surprised by tour mate Luke Bryan with the news that "Goodbye Looks Good on You" had been RIAA GOLD-certified.

Collaborations and Milestones

In July, her Tiësto collaboration "Hot Honey" reached No. 1 on the Billboard dance/mix show airplay chart. "It was a pinch-me moment. Life surprises you. I never guessed my first No. 1 would be on the dance charts, showing the reach of country music."Tiësto's wife Annika Backes suggested Springsteen for the job. "She was a big fan and when he asked me, I fell in love with the song and related to the story. Shooting the music video was intense but worth it."On Friday, Dec. 6, she released her latest project, Alana Springsteen: Live from NPR's Tiny Desk. "Walking into that studio was intimidating, but the band was the star. There's no editing, just playing as a band and making space for each other, making it special."Though she can't say when her next album will come out, she promises more music in 2025. She's also going on tour with Keith Urban and making her Stagecoach debut next year. "He's been a hero of mine. It's going to be an incredible tour and I'm excited for all the new experiences."