Patty heard her sister perform live at a serviceman's club and decided that she would like to become a performer as well. She would sing for her family at home, but always in another room so they couldnt see her, later she would write songs and perform them with her brother Rodger in local venues.

    Aged 14 and with only with a handful of songs, her guitar and a dream, Patty and Rodger traveled to Nashville. There Patty was fortunate to meet Porter Wagoner and Dolly Parton. When Porter heard her sing 'Sounds Of Loneliness' a song that she had written and often sang for her father, Porter knew that Patty had that something special, but he also knew the value of a good education. He encouraged Patty to go back home and finish school although he did invite her to travel with him and Dolly Parton on weekends.

    Two years later Patty was hired by the Wilburn Brothers Band to replace their female singer, Patty's cousin Loretta Lynn. While working with the Wilburn's she met Terry Lovelace who would become her first husband. Patty and Terry later moved to his home state of North Carolina.

    In the mid 1980's Patty heard that Nashville was looking for more traditional artists and recorded a 5-song demo tape. This caught the attention of a producer at MCA/Nashville, Tony Brown. By the end of 1985 she was offered a recording contract. At this point her relationship with Terry had deteriorated and the marriage was terminated in divorce.

    In 1987 Patty established herself with UK audiences with her performance at the Wembley festival.

    In 1988, in addition to her first top ten hit with "If My Heart Had Windows", Patty realised a lifelong dream when she was invited to become a member of the Grand Ole Opry. Her long time friend, Porter Wagoner inducted her, and for her membership induction she sang that top 10 song.

    In 1989, she married her producer; Emory Gordy, Jr., but they hid their marriage for almost two years.

    The 1990's brought many changes in Patty's career. She hired a new manager, left MCA/Nashville and shortly thereafter signed with Sony/Epic. In 1992 and Patty and Emory began working on her first album for Epic. Since joining Epic, Patty has had 14 top ten hits that include seven #1 hits.

    After 13 years of touring, Patty has decided to take time off in 1999 to relax and work on some song writing. She has not included a self-penned song on her albums since she recorded 'Go On' from her 'Honky Tonk Angel' album.