Mickey Guyton, a prominent figure in the country music scene, has recently expressed her beliefs regarding the rich tapestry of American music and its diverse roots. During a performance for the Salt Lick Sessions, Guyton showcased her original track “All American” in addition to a rendition of John Denver’s classic “Take Me Home, Country Roads.” Through these performances, she highlighted the multifaceted nature of American music as a reflection of the country’s multicultural identity.
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In her conversation, Guyton emphasised that there isn’t a singular sound that typifies American music. Instead, she views the nation as a vibrant melting pot of cultures and influences. “If you look at what America is, there’s no defined race. It’s a melting pot of so many people from all over the world,” remarked the 43-year-old artist. This perspective aligns with her belief that the music produced in America is equally diverse, encompassing a variety of genres and styles.
In her view, the American songbook is vast and ever-evolving, shaped by the myriad people and cultures that have contributed to its development. “We embrace so many different types of music and cultures. You have Afrobeats, country, gospel, R&B, and hip-hop,” she elaborated. “Even influences from the British pop scene can be regarded as part of American music. It is an all-encompassing term that reflects the diverse population within the United States.”
This ethos is central to the “Songs of U.S.” series by Salt Lick Sessions, which seeks to delve into the evolution of the American music landscape as the country approaches its 250th anniversary. Throughout the summer, various musicians from different genres participated in discussions and performances that celebrated the sounds and stories that have shaped America’s cultural identity.
Guyton’s own song “All American” allows her to navigate the complex notion of what it means to be American while celebrating the diversity she believes is crucial to the nation’s fabric. Raised in Arlington, Texas, Guyton has consistently blended contemporary country with elements of pop and R&B, creating a unique sound that resonates with a broad audience. Her breakthrough came in 2020 with “Black Like Me,” a personal and poignant song that not only earned her a Grammy nomination but also made her the first Black female solo artist to receive such recognition within the country music genre.
Following the success of her debut studio album “Remember Her Name” in 2021, Guyton further solidified her position in the music industry with her 2024 release, “House on Fire.” Notably, she also made history at the 63rd Annual Grammy Awards by performing “Black Like Me,” marking her as the first Black female country artist to take the stage at this prestigious event. Additionally, she co-hosted the Academy of Country Music Awards in 2021 and performed the national anthem at Super Bowl LVI in 2022.
In contributing to the “Songs of U.S.” series, Guyton also put her own twist on the beloved track “Take Me Home, Country Roads,” accompanied by musician Seth Cook on acoustic guitar and backing vocals. This performance exemplifies her ability to reinterpret classic songs while infusing them with her distinct musical flair.
The series has drawn in a wide array of talent, with artists such as Gene Simmons, Old Crow Medicine Show, Farayi, and Claire Ernst exploring the ways in which music serves as a lens through which to view American history and as a powerful means of fostering understanding among diverse communities. The ongoing discussions and performances are part of Salt Lick Sessions’ mission to redefine what constitutes the modern American songbook and to question who has the authority to shape it.
At the heart of Salt Lick Sessions is the Salt Lick Incubator, a non-profit organisation dedicated to supporting artistic innovation and the sustainable careers of musicians. Founded by Roger Brown, the former president of Berklee College of Music, alongside Liza Levy, the organisation offers valuable assistance through grants, mentorship, and development opportunities for emerging artists.
As the conversation continues, the series will engage further at AMERICANAFEST 2026, where a panel discussing “Songs of U.S.” is scheduled for September 16 in Nashville, featuring participants including Swamp Dogg, Raye Zaragoza, and Farayi. This ongoing dialogue around the American songbook underscores the rich diversity of the nation’s music and its ever-evolving narrative.