Natalie Stovall is the newest member of Runaway June! After founding member Hannah Mulholland announced she was leaving the trio, remaining members Naomi Cooke and Jennifer Wayne stopped by the Bobby Bones Show, along with Natalie, to announce she was filling the space left vacant by Hannah.

“We talked about being a duo and talked about what that meant, and we just really loved the three-part harmony,” Jennifer explained. “And also, when we talked about adding a member, if we were going to add a member, we were like, ‘The literal only person we could ever see taking this part is Natalie, because she’s an amazing singer, she’s an amazing musician. Her presence on stage is insane. So we thought about being a duo or having someone that makes us better, and it was a no-brainer.”

For her part, Natalie, who was on Blake Shelton’s team on Season 13 of The Voice, has been working on her solo career, including with her band Natalie Stovall and the Drive for much of her adult life, but quickly saw the potential of joining an all-female group.

“It’s extremely exciting. I really am honored that they were thinking it was either going to be a duo, or I was the only person they were going to ask,” Natalie said. “I know that one of my favorite ways to create music is in a group setting and with band members. I mean, there’s nothing like that. But I’ve never had the opportunity to really tour with sisters on the road.

“I’ve always been surrounded by dudes,” she continued. “So that in itself, and also just the thought of getting to sign three-part harmony all the time. I’m such a sucker for harmony. It was a really left-field ask. I did not expect it. It took me a second to adjust my focus to it, but as soon as it settled in, it was a no-brainer for me.”

Natalie tweeted out the good news early on May 15, revealing that she has been keeping a secret for quite some time.

Let the adventure begin!!! ❤️💫 I am SO excited to finally let y’all in on what’s been going on!!! I am joining @runawayjune!!! As soon as we can, we will be out there on the road coming your way. And in the meantime, we will be creating music for you to hear! Much love. ✨✨✨ pic.twitter.com/Kti8gQuouZ

— Natalie Stovall (@NatalieStovall) May 15, 2020

“Let the adventure begin!!!” Natalie posted. “I am SO excited to finally let y’all in on what’s been going on!!! I am joining @runawayjune!!! As soon as we can, we will be out there on the road coming your way. And in the meantime, we will be creating music for you to hear! Much love.”

Hannah, who according to Naomi wants to spend more time in California with her husband, shared the surprising news on social media on Thursday, May 14.

“It’s with great respect and love that I must announce my departure from Runaway June,” Hannah announced. “We have spent 5 years chasing dreams, climbing mountains, conquering things we never imagined possible, and having lots of fun along the way. I am so thankful for the opportunities I have had, and all of the amazing people I have met along the way. Our great team, supportive label, amazing fans, and all of our champions at country radio…You guys have changed my life forever.

“I’ve dreamt these dreams since I was 5 years old, and I feel so fortunate to have gotten these chances and been a part of this incredible journey,” she continued. “I wish everyone continued success and happiness. I hope you will continue to follow my creative endeavors and share in what the future has to hold. It is bittersweet, but I am excited to continue to evolve and grow, while keeping these memories near and dear to my heart. Thank you. Love you all. – Hannah”

Runaway June is scheduled to go out with Luke Bryan later this year, on his Proud to Be Right Here Tour. They are also working on a Christmas album. Updates will be posted at RunawayJune.com.

Photo Credit: Shutterstock / Debby Wong