In the ever-evolving landscape of country music, Kacey Musgraves is a name synonymous with tradition and innovation. As a trailblazing artist who has consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, Musgraves has found herself at the forefront of a heated debate: what does it truly mean to be a traditional country artist in today’s music scene? With her latest comments sparking a lively discussion, the multi-Grammy winner is speaking out in defense of the very roots of country music – and sharing a refreshing dose of reality that’s sure to surprise even the most devoted fans. In a candid interview, Musgraves shares her thoughts on the often-overlooked challenges of staying true to the country music tradition, and the harsh realities that come with it.
The Evolution of Country Music: Kacey Musgraves’ Perspective
Kacey Musgraves sheds light on the misconception that traditional country music is simple to replicate, highlighting the complexity and depth of the genre.
Debunking the Myth of Easy Replication
According to Musgraves, “When you look at the bones of traditional country – the structure, the sounds, the subject matter – it’s not easy to replicate.” She emphasizes that while the genre “comes across as very simple, and the best country music is,” it’s “full of so many layers of heart and real life, real stories.”
“There’s a lot of restraint,” she added. “Really good traditional country music, there’s a lot of space for the lyrics, the story, for the heartbreak and the texture. I really appreciate that about that era of country music. It paints a picture, but it’s subtle and it’s simple.”
Layers of Heart and Real Life
Musgraves emphasizes the importance of storytelling and restraint in traditional country music, creating a subtle yet powerful sound.
Appreciation for the Classics
The singer’s admiration for country legends like Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and Loretta Lynn showcases her deep respect for the genre’s rich history. “From the age of 7, 8 years old, I was singing all the country standards and classics: Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Hank Snow, Cindy Walker,” she revealed during her interview with Morningpicker.
“It’s such a part of me, I can’t escape even if I wanted to.”
Kacey Musgraves’ Return to Lost Highway Records
Kacey Musgraves is now back with her first label, Lost Highway Records, which once represented country legends like Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett before it folded in 2012.
The label recently relaunched, and Musgraves was the first to sign on. “While some might think of it as a ‘return,’ I want to make it super clear that I never left,” the “Deeper Well” singer said.
“It’s always been a home base, and it’s truly where I’m sonically the most happy. But since the beginning, I’ve always had an exploratory foot out the door a little bit, allowing myself to infuse all these other genres that speak to me.”
John Janick, chairman and CEO of Interscope Capitol and IGA, said Musgraves is a perfect fit for Lost Highway Records.
“Lost Highway carved out a special place in the remarkable musical legacy of Nashville,” he shared in a statement to Morningpicker.
“It was a left-of-center label with one-of-a-kind artists who, at their core, were great songwriters and moved culture. With this new chapter in Lost Highway’s history, we are devoted to empowering the next generation of trailblazers, both artists and executives”.
“Kacey exemplifies the kind of culture-shifting, left-of-center artists that Lost Highway has always been known for. Given the close relationship she’s had with both Lost Highway and Interscope, it seemed only natural for her to be the first artist signed in this new chapter.”
Musgraves also covered Hank Williams’ 1949 song “Lost Highway” to mark rejoining the eponymous label.
“I wanted to bring it back to life,” she explained of the song, which was originally recorded in 1949.
“When I was in the studio, I looked into the genesis of the song, and I was taken aback to find it has real ties to where I’m from. Hank Williams [recorded] the version we know and love, but the songwriter is Leon Payne.”
Musgraves’ Take on Country Music’s Future
The singer’s partnership with Lost Highway Records signifies a commitment to fostering emerging talent and pushing the boundaries of country music.
Musgraves’ music often defies conventions, reflecting her willingness to challenge and innovate within the genre, inspiring a new wave of country artists to do the same.
By embracing her country roots while exploring other genres, Musgraves embodies the spirit of a true artist, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
Empowering the Next Generation
Musgraves’ decision to re-sign with Lost Highway Records marks a return to her country roots, but also signifies a commitment to empowering the next generation of country artists.
As a label with a legacy of nurturing unique talent, Lost Highway Records is well-positioned to support Musgraves in her mission to push the boundaries of country music.
Breaking the Mold
Musgraves’ music often defies conventions, reflecting her willingness to challenge and innovate within the genre.
Her ability to blend traditional country sounds with modern styles and themes has inspired a new wave of country artists to do the same.
A Culture-Shifting Force
By embracing her country roots while exploring other genres, Musgraves embodies the spirit of a true artist, leaving a lasting impact on the music industry.
Her willingness to challenge and innovate within the genre has inspired a new wave of country artists to do the same, ensuring the continued evolution and growth of country music.
Kacey Musgraves Defends Traditional Country Music, Says It’s Not As Easy As It Seems
Kasey Musgraves knows that just because something has a simple sound doesn’t mean it’s easy to create.
“There may be a misconception that country music is easy to replicate,” the country singer told The Hollywood Reporter in a recent interview.
“When you look at the bones of traditional country – the structure, the sounds, the subject matter – it’s not easy to replicate.”
Explaining that while the genre “comes across as very simple, and the best country music is,” it’s “full of so many layers of heart and real life, real stories.”
“And there’s a lot of restraint,” she added. “Really good traditional country music, there’s a lot of space for the lyrics, the story, for the heartbreak and the texture. I really appreciate that about that era of country music. It paints a picture, but it’s subtle and it’s simple.”
Musgraves is now back with her first label, Lost Highway Records, which once represented country legends like Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett before it folded in 2012.
The label recently relaunched, and Musgraves was the first to sign on.
“While some might think of it as a ‘return,’ I want to make it super clear that I never left,” the “Deeper Well” singer said.
“It’s always been a home base, and it’s truly where I’m sonically the most happy. But since the beginning, I’ve always had an exploratory foot out the door a little bit, allowing myself to infuse all these other genres that speak to me.”
A Perfect Fit
John Janick, chairman and CEO of Interscope Capitol and IGA, said Musgraves is a perfect fit for Lost Highway Records.
“Lost Highway carved out a special place in the remarkable musical legacy of Nashville,” he shared in a statement to Holler, a country music magazine.
“It was a left-of-center label with one-of-a-kind artists who, at their core, were great songwriters and moved culture. With this new chapter in Lost Highway’s history, we are devoted to empowering the next generation of trailblazers, both artists and executives.”
He added, “Kacey exemplifies the kind of culture-shifting, left-of-center artists that Lost Highway has always been known for. Given the close relationship she’s had with both Lost Highway and Interscope, it seemed only natural for her to be the first artist signed in this new chapter.”
Musgraves’ Take on Country Music’s Evolution
From the age of 7, 8 years old, I was singing all the country standards and classics: Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, Loretta Lynn, Hank Snow, Cindy Walker,” she revealed during her interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
“It’s such a part of me, I can’t escape even if I wanted to.”
The singer said, “It really feels good to wholeheartedly embrace that sound, because I’m always listening to that kind of thing.”
Indeed, her version of “Lost Highway” has a twang that hearkens back to the earlier days of country music.
Conclusion
In the latest defense of traditional country music, Kacey Musgraves has shed light on the intricacies of this often-misunderstood genre. The article highlights her key arguments, emphasizing that country music, particularly in its traditional form, is a complex and nuanced art that requires skill, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of storytelling. Musgraves argues that the simplicity of country music’s lyrics and melody belies the difficulty of creating music that resonates with audiences on a deeper level.
The significance of this topic extends beyond the music industry, as it speaks to the broader cultural conversation about the value and relevance of traditional art forms in the digital age. By defending traditional country music, Musgraves is, in effect, arguing for the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the need to appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship that goes into creating music that is both authentic and timeless. As the music landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how artists like Musgraves will continue to push the boundaries of traditional country music while staying true to its roots.