Maren Morris: A Candid Reflection on Being a Woman in Country Music

Maren Morris is pulling back the curtain on what it’s been like to navigate the country music world as a woman — and she’s not sugarcoating it. In a candid TikTok video posted on January 9, the Grammy-winning artist reflected on her decade-long journey in the genre, describing her experience as, at times, “really heartbreaking.”

Calculated Choices in a Challenging Industry

“The choices I have made over the years, being a woman in music — especially country music — [have been] very calculated,” Morris shared. She acknowledged her fortunate success in the country music scene, which skyrocketed with her breakout single “My Church” in 2016, a track that not only earned her a Grammy but also introduced her powerful voice to millions.

A Shifting Atmosphere

However, behind the scenes, Morris noted that the atmosphere was rapidly changing — and not always in welcoming ways. She recounted how her debut album, *Hero*, was released just months before the 2016 presidential election, marking the beginning of a significant cultural shift within the country music community.

“The country music space [has] become very politicized,” she explained, highlighting the emotional complexity of being a songwriter attempting to authentically reflect the world around her. What was once perceived as neutral ground has occasionally turned tense and isolating.

Personal Changes and Industry Dynamics

Morris recognized that personal transformations have influenced her recent decisions, including her choice to step back from certain public engagements within the country music industry. “The last few years I have definitely taken moves… I’ve gotten divorced, I’m a single mom now, and I’m sort of in my own weird music space,” she revealed. Despite her love for her Texas roots and country music, she described the current atmosphere as “very hot” and noted that “no one is very friendly.”

A Challenging Environment

While acknowledging that “some people are cool,” Morris conveyed that the environment surrounding industry events, such as awards shows, has become “very dicey” and “very heated.” This has led her to take a step back in certain aspects of her career.

Commitment to Songwriting

Despite the challenges, Morris has continued to create and maintain her passion for music. “You cannot be a full songwriter and reflect reality and live through song without being political,” she asserted. “It is what it is… I try to be kind. I try to be benevolent.”

Embracing New Directions

Her latest project, *Dreamsicle*, was released in May and marks her first major release since taking a step back from country radio to redefine her artistic direction. The record encapsulates a blend of personal growth and artistic reckoning, representing the next chapter in her evolving story.

“There are people and energies in the sphere of my work the last few years that have really put me off,” Morris admitted. “So I’ve stepped away in certain facets. But I still love country music.”

Conclusion

Maren Morris’s journey through the country music industry reflects the complex realities faced by women in the genre. Her candid insights shed light on the challenges and changes that have shaped her career while emphasizing her unwavering passion for songwriting and her roots in country music. As she continues to navigate this landscape, Morris remains committed to authenticity and growth, paving the way for her future endeavors.

FAQs

What inspired Maren Morris to reflect on her experiences in country music?

Maren Morris’s reflection was inspired by her decade-long journey in the industry, which she described as emotionally complex and sometimes heartbreaking, particularly as a woman navigating a changing landscape.

What was Maren Morris’s breakout moment?

Her breakout moment came in 2016 with the release of “My Church,” a song that earned her a Grammy and introduced her to a broader audience.

How has Maren Morris’s personal life influenced her music career?

Personal changes, including her divorce and becoming a single mom, have led Morris to reevaluate her public engagements and creative direction within the country music industry.

What is Maren Morris’s latest project?

Maren Morris’s latest project, *Dreamsicle*, was released in May and marks her first major release since stepping away from country radio, reflecting her personal growth and artistic evolution.