Mickey Guyton’s Remember Her Name: A Bold Debut

Mickey Guyton made waves in country music last summer with “Black Like Me,” a powerful anthem inspired by John Howard Griffin’s book and her own experiences as a Black woman. This track, which became a surprise hit, was a standout from her debut album *Remember Her Name*. For over a decade, Guyton has been honing her craft, and this album serves as a testament to her immense talent and emotional depth, blending heartfelt lyrics with her impressive vocal prowess.

Guyton’s journey to her debut album was fraught with challenges, including pressure to conform to traditional country music standards and the barriers of being a Black artist in a predominantly white genre. Despite these obstacles, she released her first single in 2015, and while it achieved modest success, it was “Black Like Me” that truly marked a turning point. Written in 2019, this song, which she released amid global protests following George Floyd’s murder, became a streaming hit, showcasing Guyton’s unique blend of country and powerful, socially conscious lyrics. Now 38, Guyton’s *Remember Her Name* arrives as country music continues to grapple with issues of race. The album features 16 tracks, including introspective ballads, inspirational anthems, and a lively barroom ode to rosé. Guyton’s strong soprano and honest songwriting shine through in tracks like “Different” and “What Are You Gonna Tell Her?” The album also includes a striking cover of Beyoncé’s “If I Were A Boy,” highlighting the artist’s versatility and challenging the genre’s boundaries. With *Remember Her Name*, Guyton not only asserts her place in country music but also enriches it by embracing a broader, more inclusive perspective.