I hardly think the latter statements should be supported, however the fact remains that she was blanked at the Canadian Country Music Awards... even booed by fans in attendance, even though she was not there. And for next month's CMA Awards, she is nowhere on the ballots.

One explanation is that she has not released a new album, unless you consider the International Version of Come On Over a new release, in 3 years. She is currently writing and recording in her home in Switzerland. Last I heard, execs from her record label flew to Switzerland to see what she had done, and she hadn't completed more than a few songs. So, it wouldn't seem we could expect a new release for a while yet. I'm sure that Mercury was hoping she might be able to put out a Christmas album this year, but that didn't pan out, either.

Still, Come On Over continues to sell, and Shania is still in the news.

What do you think? Do you think her extended absence has hurt her career? Or do you think that her fans will welcome her back whenever she completes her album? You can vote in the poll below to express your thoughts on the subject. Also, feel free to drop by the Country Forums and express your opinions there on this or any other country music topic.