Singer Jewel Is Honored With Career Milestone Award

June 6, 2008 4:24 p.m. EST

Nashville, TN (CNS) - Singer Jewel, who released her new country album on Tuesday, was honored Thursday by the Recording Industry Association of America. They surprised the singer with a career-milestone plaque.

Jewel has sold more than 18 million albums in the U.S. and 27 million albums worldwide since her professional debut in 1995. The Recording Industry surprised the singer as she was getting ready to sign autographs at the Country Music Association festival in Nashville. Jewel, whose real name is Jewel Kilcher, is a judge on this season's edition of "Nashville Star."

The 34-year-old singer's new album, "Perfectly Clear" has its lead single "Stronger Woman" already landing at No. 15 on the Billboard charts.

This summer Jewel will tour with Brad Paisley.