Kacey Musgraves: Embracing Her Country Roots and Redefining the Genre

Kacey Musgraves is making waves in the music industry, reaffirming her commitment to country music while simultaneously pushing its boundaries. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, Musgraves addressed misconceptions surrounding the genre, emphasizing the depth and complexity often overlooked in country music. She highlights the importance of simplicity, restraint, and authentic storytelling, qualities that define the genre’s essence.

Musgraves explained that while country music may appear straightforward on the surface, creating truly impactful and resonant country songs is far from easy. She stated that the best country music is full of layers of heart and real life. She added that there is a lot of restraint in that genre. Musgraves emphasized the space for lyrics, story, heartbreak, and texture in traditional country music, appreciating how it paints a picture while remaining subtle and simple.

The singer’s remarks come amidst her return to Lost Highway Records, her first label, which previously housed country music icons such as Willie Nelson and Lyle Lovett. Although some perceive this as a return to her roots, Musgraves clarified that country music has always been her home base. She emphasized that she never left the genre. Musgraves has always had an exploratory foot out the door, allowing herself to infuse all these other genres that speak to me.

John Janick, chairman and CEO of Interscope Capitol and IGA, lauded Musgraves as a perfect fit for the relaunched Lost Highway Records. He acknowledged the label’s legacy of supporting unique, culture-shifting artists and expressed confidence that Musgraves embodies these qualities. He said that Musgraves exemplifies the kind of culture-shifting, left-of-center artists that Lost Highway has always been known for. Given the close relationship shes had with both Lost Highway and Interscope, it seemed only natural for her to be the first artist signed in this new chapter.

To commemorate her return to Lost Highway, Musgraves covered Hank Williams’ classic 1949 song "Lost Highway." She described singing country standards and classics since the age of 7, listing iconic artists like Hank Williams, Patsy Cline, and Loretta Lynn as significant influences. Musgraves emphasized that this music is deeply ingrained in her identity, stating that she cannot escape it even if she wanted to.

Musgraves shared her appreciation for wholeheartedly embracing the traditional country sound, as it aligns with her personal listening preferences. Her rendition of "Lost Highway" reflects the twang and authenticity reminiscent of early country music. She also said that her version of the song didn’t need an avant-garde reimagining.

Musgraves further elaborated on her connection to "Lost Highway," noting its unexpected ties to her hometown. She recounted the story of the song’s songwriter, Leon Payne, who was reportedly hitchhiking from California to Alba, Texas, to visit his ailing mother. She was taken aback to find it has real ties to where I’m from. Musgraves expressed amazement that Alba, the town next to her tiny hometown of Golden, was referenced in the song’s origin. This discovery solidified the song’s significance as a full-circle moment, connecting her past and present through her music and label affiliation.

Musgraves has long held a unique perspective on success in the music industry. In 2019, she stated that radio airplay is not necessarily her barometer of a successful song. Musgraves emphasized the importance of connecting with listeners, regardless of where they encounter her music. She also continued about "Golden Hour," which won the album of the year award at the time. This outlook underscores her focus on artistic integrity and authentic connection over conventional metrics of success.

Musgraves also faced an incident during a recent Tampa show where a fan grabbed her, prompting her to curse at the individual. This incident underscores the challenges artists face in maintaining personal boundaries while engaging with their audience.

Musgraves’ commitment to country music, coupled with her willingness to explore and redefine its boundaries, positions her as a significant figure in the genre’s ongoing evolution. Her return to Lost Highway Records signifies a new chapter in her career, one that promises to honor the traditions of country music while embracing innovation and artistic expression. Her perspective on radio play and connection with the audience also reflects her artistic integritry.