Alayna, whose name is Kelly Seebeck Efstathiou, has been selected for induction into the Georgia Country Music Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2026. The induction ceremony will take place Saturday, October 24, at the Seaplane Opry House in Moultrie, Georgia.
Born and raised in Hazlehurst, Alayna was selected for the honor by the organization’s Board of Directors in recognition of her contributions and achievements in the music industry and the musical culture of the region.
For Alayna, the recognition represents more than a professional accomplishment. It is a meaningful acknowledgment of more than a decade of dedication to her craft, including countless hours of work that often take place far from the spotlight.
“This means more to me than I can put into words,” Alayna told Hazlehurst Now. “I’ve spent over 10 years working long, often thankless hours writing, creating, and now producing music that I hope inspires others and makes a difference in their lives. There’s so much that goes on behind the scenes that people don’t see, so to have those years of work recognized by my home state of Georgia is incredibly special.”
Throughout her musical journey, Alayna says the encouragement of family, friends, and the communities that have supported her has played an important role in her success. “My family and all of the communities I’ve been a part of have been such a blessing throughout this journey, and I’m so grateful for the love and support they’ve shown me,” she said. “Above all, I give God the glory. He has been faithful through every season, and I’m excited to see what He has in store for this next chapter.”
In announcing the honor on social media, Alayna expressed her appreciation to the Georgia Country Music Hall of Fame Board of Directors and everyone who has supported her career. “To be recognized by my home state in this way is something I will never take for granted,” she wrote.
She also shared a sentiment that will resonate with those who know her hometown roots.
“Born & raised in Hazlehurst, GA….I’m proud to be a Georgia girl.”
The Georgia Country Music Hall of Fame Class of 2026 Induction Ceremony will be held Saturday, October 24, from noon until 3 p.m. at the Seaplane Opry House, located at 2099 Georgia Highway 133 South in Moultrie.
The celebration will begin with lunch at noon, followed by musical performances and the awards ceremony. The event will feature the Common Ground Band.
For Alayna, the upcoming induction marks another chapter in a musical journey built on persistence, creativity, faith, and the support of those who have encouraged her along the way. And for her hometown of Hazlehurst, it is an opportunity to celebrate one of its own as she receives statewide recognition for her dedication to music.
Hazlehurst Now congratulates Kelly Alayna on this well-deserved honor and wishes her continued success!
No matter where life takes them, their roots run deep in Jeff Davis County.
