Mickey Guyton: House on Fire

Mickey Guyton – House on Fire. Photo credit: Little Operation Records

She is the most successful African-American country singer of our time. And so far there has been little reason to doubt that country is what she does. The new album “House On Fire”, which comes with great expectations, will certainly alarm one or two purists or genre police. Because Mickey Guyton This goes even more in the direction of soulful, danceable R&B as usual. But the same applies here: genre boundaries are fluid. Nothing is entirely clear one way or the other.

Songs as border crossers

The title song “House Of Fire” still has many elements of current Nashville radio country in its musical structure. This is also the case with the opening song “My Side Of The Country”. However, on “Make it me” these elements are completely lost in favor of a funky dance rhythm. While “Here With You” sounds like a current Nashville country ballad. Finally, “Little Man” features a folk banjo crossed with dance beats.

Overall, all twelve songs are cross-border. Mickey Guyton sets out to overcome boundaries. She swims freely and does what she wants. No wonder, since she has a successful career peak behind her. “House On Fire” is Mickey’s first album since September 2021, when she released “Remember Her Name” to critical acclaim. With the album, Mickey made history as the first Black artist nominated for a Grammy in country music, earning nominations for Best Country Album, Best Country Song and Best Country Solo Performance.

Strong voice, strong songwriting

And what she does here on her new album, she does really well. Because they are all really good songs in terms of craftsmanship. Her singing is of impressive strength, as is her songwriting, where she also received support from colleagues. “House on fire “is an album of songs I wrote for my husband about our relationship,” says Mickey. “The good, the bad, the ugly and everything in between.” This album is completely me and I’m so excited for you all to hear it.”

So in “House of Fire,” Mickey sings, “Love and war ain’t easy after all,” and asks, “If I set this house on fire, if we tear these walls down to the wires, will you still love me?”

Conclusion: Mickey Guyton continues on her own self-confident path. Rooted in country, she inspires the ability to overcome genre boundaries and mix styles. The result is good to listen to!