Vanessa Hudgens, who is a common “household name” in the USA by now, hit the big 18 on December 14, 2006. The dark-haired beauty rose to fame in 2006 because of the hit made-for-television film, High School Musical.

But just like her fellow members Hayden Panettiere, Ashley Tisdale and all the likes, a career just based on acting is not enough for Vanessa Hudgens. She wants it all… and more!

That’s why Vanessa Hudgens signed a recording contract with Hollywood Records in June 2006. The result: Her first album “V“, which debuted at a decent #24 in the U.S. album charts. Vanessa described her album as “pop-rock, pop-R&B and pop-dance… almost like a mix-tape“.

What do you think about Vanessa Hudgens or High School Musical? Like it or not? Will she succeed in the music industry? Tell us what you think and leave a comment. But now enjoy the beautiful pictures of Vanessa!

And for all the Vanessa Hudgens hardcore fans out there: the World Premiere of Vanessa’s “Come Back To Me” Music Video which premiered on the Disney Channel on August 25, 2006 is waiting to be watched right after the jump.