Buddy Jewell (born April 2, 1961 in Lepanto, Arkansas) is an American country music singer-songwriter who was the first winner on the USA Network talent show Nashville Star. Signed to Columbia Records in 2003, Jewell made his debut on the American country music scene with the release of his self-titled album, which produced back-to-back Top 5 singles in "Help Pour out the Rain (Lacey's Song)" and "Sweet Southern Comfort". Another album, Times Like These, followed in 2005. Born in Lepanto, Arkansas, Jewell was 41 when he won the Nashville Star country music singing contest in 2003. After winning the competition, he was signed to a recording contract with Columbia Records. His first album, Buddy Jewell, debuted at #1 on the Top Country Albums charts, and earned him a gold record and two Top 5 singles on the Billboard country charts. His 2005 follow-up, Times Like These, was less successful, and Jewell was released from his contract on 2005.