Mickey Guyton has become a trailblazer in country music. Recently, she stopped by the ESSENCE office, buzzing with excitement as she prepared for her upcoming album, House On Fire. With a tour kicking off soon, she shared joyful moments from her life, including adorable photos of her son. “Look at him, he’s just too cute,” she exclaimed, showcasing her radiant energy.
The Early Days in Crawford, Texas
Before Mickey became a household name, she was known as Candace, growing up in the small town of Crawford, Texas. Church played a significant role in her upbringing, as both of her parents served as a deacon and deaconess. Mickey recalls, “We spent a lot of time in the church, and that was the music that we’d sing.” This environment sparked her passion for music early on.
Mickey’s love for singing deepened after witnessing iconic performances. Whitney Houston’s unforgettable rendition of the National Anthem at Super Bowl XXV and LeAnn Rimes’ captivating performance at a Texas Rangers game inspired her to pursue music seriously. “I just wanted to be her,” Mickey reflects, highlighting how these moments fueled her desire to sing.
Moving to Nashville and Facing Challenges
In search of more opportunities, Mickey moved from Crawford to Nashville. Although she adored country music, she hesitated about her place in the genre. “I didn’t know that there was anybody out there for me or like me able to sing country music,” she admits. Eventually, she took a leap of faith, stepping into Nashville’s vibrant music scene.
After signing with Capitol Records, Mickey’s career began to flourish. In 2011, she performed for President Obama at the White House after a last-minute change in the lineup. Singing “Crazy” by Patsy Cline marked a pivotal moment in her journey. By 2014, she released her first EP, which included her breakout hit “Better Than You Left Me.” This song resonated deeply with listeners, reflecting her personal experiences.
Embracing a New Era of Music
Mickey’s music took on new meanings during the tumultuous events of 2020. Inspired by the Black Lives Matter movement, she released “Heaven Down Here,” which echoed the struggles and beauty of that time. “I wanted to be with them, but with COVID, I had to stay inside for my baby,” she recalls. This song served as a beacon of hope during a challenging period.
Her resilience paid off. Within just a few years, she became the first Black woman to co-host the Academy of Country Music Awards and was recognized as Breakthrough Artist of the Year by TIME magazine. Mickey was also nominated for Grammy awards four times, solidifying her status in the music industry.
A Voice for Inclusion and Representation
Mickey’s journey is not just about personal success. She is passionate about uplifting other artists. “I felt the country music industry wanting to do better and be more inclusive,” she explains. Her platform has allowed her to advocate for Black, Latino, and LGBTQIA artists, ensuring their stories are told and celebrated.
The release of Beyoncé’s Cowboy Carter album further amplified Black artists in country music. While Mickey wasn’t featured on the album, Beyoncé recognized her contributions. Mickey hopes this recognition isn’t just a trend. “I pray that people don’t forget about these artists,” she stresses, emphasizing the need for ongoing support.
New Music and Exciting Plans Ahead
This year, Mickey Guyton is gearing up for her sophomore album, House On Fire. This 12-track project includes standout singles like “Scary Love” and “My Kind of Country,” both reflecting her unique experiences. To celebrate the album, she will embark on her first headlining tour, visiting major cities like Atlanta, Chicago, and Nashville.
“This is my love era,” she shares. “The tour is just so big; it’s spiritual, and I’m in a really exciting time in my life.” Mickey Guyton continues to inspire others with her music and dedication to making country music more inclusive.
