In the past twenty years since her breakthrough single ‘Kerosene,’ Miranda Lambert has reached every milestone a country artist aspires to achieve. With her new album, Crisco, she aims for greater heights of stardom.
Lambert initially presented herself with a defiant attitude. The video for her 2005 single ‘Kerosene’ showcased her bold image. She portrayed a woman exacting revenge on a cheating partner, signaling her unyielding stance to the country music industry. Her powerful lyrics declared independence and a refusal to conform.
Last year, she celebrated ‘Kerosene’s’ 20th anniversary at the Academy of Country Music Awards, performing it as a duet with Ella Langley. This event symbolized her evolution from an individualist to a collaborator. Lambert was instrumental in helping Langley achieve success with ‘Choosin’ Texas,’ a hit that topped charts across genres.
Lambert took a moment to reflect on the popularity of ‘Choosin’ Texas’ while at her managers’ office in Nashville. She expressed her joy at introducing new fans to country music. Her new album, Crisco, blends pop production with traditional country elements, creating what she humorously dubs a ‘country disco record.’
Over her career, Lambert has consistently balanced mainstream success with artistic authenticity. While she initially resisted pop crossover, she later embraced a broader musical reach. Her visit to a drag bar, where she heard remixed country classics, inspired this shift. She collaborated with Nashville producer Jesse Frasure to remix her song ‘Tequila Does,’ launching a new songwriting partnership.
Frasure, known as Telemitry, praised Lambert’s adaptability in writing and producing new music. Together, they crafted songs for Crisco, including a cover of Jim Croce’s ‘I’ll Have to Say I Love You in a Song.’ Their creative process involved thoughtful exploration of past pop-country styles.
Recording at Blackbird Studios, their sessions featured disco balls and vibrant lighting, fostering a unique atmosphere. Lambert’s vocal talents and witty lyrics were influenced by the lush, vintage sounds they explored. She crafted romantic, dramatic melodies with this new approach.
With Crisco, Lambert reaches out to her LGBTQ+ fans, reminiscent of Dolly Parton’s iconic appeal in the community. Her rooftop Crisco Disco drag brunch during CMA Fest highlighted these inclusive sentiments. In the album’s opener, ‘Snakeskin Boots,’ she again features Langley, creatively setting the scene for a glamorous heist.
Not only has Lambert reimagined her style, but she also mentors younger artists like Langley. She co-founded the label Big Loud Texas to support emerging talent. Lambert values collaborative songwriting, aiding other artists without imposing her expertise.
Frasure notes the rarity of a star like Lambert playing a supportive role in Nashville. Her mentorship fosters a comfortable creative environment for new artists. Lambert’s evolution reflects a calmer perspective, welcoming musical changes with ease.
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