Jessica Simpson Officially Joins Country Community

 Image by wenn.com

Jessica Simpson has taken the final step in integrating herself into the country music community. She's officially now a member of the Country Music Association. This means Jess gets special rate health insurance and benefits, and she'll be able to vote in upcoming CMA Award nominations. Ya think she'll vote for herself?

In other Jess news, she recently spoke with country music website TheBoot.com about Carrie Underwood's statement that Tony Romo will calls her. She says, "People are just trying to make a story out of nothing. I respect her and hopefully she respects me. We've just dated the same guy—that's it! I don't understand why she would say that. I respect Carrie, and I would never say anything like that."

But even though Jess doesn't necessarily agree with Carrie's choice of wording, she does respect her as an artist. She says, "I think it's impressive how many No. 1s Carrie Underwood has. Her choice in songs is really great, and she has an incredible voice. As far as new people, she has one of the strongest voices out there."

Way to clear the air, Jess! Now we just wonder what Carrie thinks about Jessica entering her territory!