This little songbird has left the nest.

Amanda Wilkinson, 23, who has been fronting the family trio the Wilkinsons since she was a teen, has embarked on a solo career.

"A lot of changes have happened with me. When you sing with your family (father and brother) ... there is only so much you can say lyrically. But as a solo artist and being a 23-year-old woman, who has experienced heartbreak multiple times, I think you're able to sing from a different place," says Wilkinson, whose self-titled debut was released Tuesday.

"I wanted to lay everything out on the line. I didn't want to be shy."

That bold attitude earned differing opinions from her former bandmates during a video shoot that had her dressed in a nude outfit in a tub.

"My Dad (Steve) is like 'you go sister!' "

But Tyler was more protective, despite his sister's care to remain "classy and lady-like."

"He knows people will be looking at his sister and he understands the mind of boys his age."

As for the fans, she says they are a tad surprised.

"People see the video and say 'HOLY' but they're just discovering I'm a woman. But wait a minute, didn't they see me grow up? I'm not staying in a time pod somewhere," says Wilkinson, who was just 16 when 26 Cents became a hit.

Maturity hasn't just happened in Wilkinson's career. She's been dating Justin Devries for more than a year now.

"He's one of the most easy-going guys you'll ever meet. I lucked out."

The two grew up together and have been friends for 12 years.

"He was one of my best friends, but we never dated. Whenever I broke up with a boyfriend, he was the first one I'd call."

Amanda isn't the only Wilkinson exploring new territory. Though the trio still plan on making music together, Tyler has started a rock band.

The entire family is starring in an "altered reality" show which will premiere on CMT Oct. 5.

"It's based on our lives -- the wackiness and the odd characters that come into it. But it's more of a sitcom than a reality show," explains Amanda.

They've shot 10 episodes and there's already talk of a second season.

"The production crew is a peach to work with, but some days I just wanted to quit."

Wilkinson, who is nominated for female artist and rising star CCMAs, is participating in FanFest tomorrow at the zoo.