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Before she was Shania Twain, Eileen sang for the family grocery money

Shania Twain sold more than 100 million albums. But the story she can't stop thinking about happened long before fame arrived.

Before she was Shania Twain, Eileen sang for the family grocery money

When we met at New York City's Power Station, Shania Twain revealed how she transformed from a young girl singing for her family's groceries to a global star. Born Eileen Regina Twain in Timmins, Ontario, she faced financial hardship as a child, often performing at cafes to raise money for petrol. Her mother recognized her talent and encouraged her to perform, leading to gigs at local beer joints.

Despite challenges, including the tragic loss of her parents at 22 and subsequent responsibility for her siblings, Eileen honed her craft in Nashville, where she adopted her stage name Shania Twain. Her album "Come On Over" solidified her status as a global icon, making her the bestselling studio album by a female artist. Now, in her latest release, "Little Miss Twain," Twain pays tribute to her humble beginnings and the influence of her mother, who encouraged her belief in her future success.

Written by urgent.news from ABC News AU's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.

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