10 Questions with ... Kacey Musgraves

1.) Congratulations on recently signing with Lost Highway Records! It must be exciting to share the same label as artists such as Hank Williams and Johnny Cash. Could you describe the type of music, fans could expect on your debut album?

Thank you! It is definitely a mind blowing, huge honor to be included on such an insane roster of artists. I'm excited and thankful, and ready to get to work on my record. I am influenced by so many different types of music. Literally. One minute I'll be listening to Simon & Garfunkel or Merle Haggard, then some crazy pop or Indian music. I hope all of that comes through on the album in a good way. But, I have a huge love for Country music so hopefully traditional country fans will love it as well.

2.) You are from a small town in East Texas called Mineola. Do you draw inspiration for songs from your Texas roots?

Absolutely. Every time I go home I find myself jotting down a million ideas I get just from driving around the back roads and hearing classic Country, or seeing old friends. I always get so nostalgic when I'm back.

3.) During a recent trip home, Gap Broadcasting Country KNUE/Tyler-Longview, TX surprised you with cake, party, etc., in honor of your signing. What is it like being embraced and supported by your hometown?

The people of East Texas (and Texas in general) have been so supportive from the beginning. It's a very humbling, great feeling and it makes me really proud to be where I'm from. I'm lucky. There are a lot of kids growing up with the same dreams I had that don't have a platform and a support system to encourage them.

4.) Snowballing off of that, you moved from Texas to Nashville a few years ago. What is the main thing you miss about the Lone Star State?

The barbecue. And the Lonestar beer. But also the ridiculous amount of state pride every Texan has. It's a funny thing. The minute you cross the state line you're seeing Texas flags - Texas EVERYTHING. And I love it. I love Tennessee, it feels like home but you definitely don't see that everywhere.

5.) "Mama's Broken Heart," which you co-wrote is on Miranda Lambert's new album "Four The Record." What's it like hearing your lyrics recorded by a prominent Country artist?

It is a very cool but very strange feeling. A very good feeling! I'm like, 'Those words came from my brain - now they're coming out of Miranda's mouth?!' This is crazy! But I'm really excited about her version of the song.

6.) You have had the opportunity to open for acts such as Willie Nelson and Loretta Lynn, and even traveled with The Josh Abbott Band to Europe this past summer. What was your most memorable place to play and why?

There have been some very memorable gigs over the years. From the back of flat bed trucks to getting to sing with Martina McBride. But, one of my favorite places we played in Europe was this tiny, little, Country dancehall in the middle of nowhere in Italy. You wouldn't have known you weren't in Texas. There were Texas flags everywhere, people line dancing, some knew the words to the songs - it was insane! While I was performing there was a bikini car washing contest going on. So yeah, that was cool.

7.) Martina McBride recently released a song you co-wrote called "When You Love A Sinner" on her new album, "Eleven." You had the opportunity to perform the song with her at a showcase in Nashville. What was the experience like sharing the stage with Martina?

It was such a great night. I was on cloud nine. Martina has such an amazing voice and it was such a trip singing harmony with her! On something I wrote! I can't even wrap my head around it. I grew up singing her songs at all the little Texas Opry houses. It was a very big honor for me.

8.) Besides singing and writing songs, what are a few other things you enjoy doing around Nashville?

I spend most of my time writing, but when I'm not I love hitting up some of the vintage stores around here, trying new foods, spending time with my dog, Pearl. I love going out and catching live music too. At any given time in any given bar you can hear live music and that's inspiring to me.

9.) Your duet with The Josh Abbott Band "Oh Tonight" has been making its way up the charts, and is a big hit in Texas. What's your favorite part about performing a song with another act?

It's just a lot of fun - it's a no-pressure situation. His fans are crazy about that song so seeing 5,000 people screaming the words back to you is a pretty cool feeling. It's very different than what I'm doing musically, but I'm really proud to be a part of it.

10.) Who are a few people that you have looked up to throughout your career and why?

I love songwriters. Artists that write their own music always meant a lot to me. I've always looked up to people like Loretta Lynn and Dolly - making it from absolutely nothing and singing the truth! Patty Griffin and Miranda Lambert are women and songwriters I've looked up to as well. I can remember my Dad playing Ray Wylie Hubbard, Tom Petty, and Neil Young around the house so I've got a lot of respect for them too.

1. If you could be a character from any movie who would it be?

Oohhh. Hmm. Well sometimes I feel just like the main character from 'Bridesmaids.' I seem to get myself into dumb situations on account of procrastinating and not using common sense, haha.

2.) What's the one accessory, you can't live without?

Mascara. Oh, and my favorite vintage boots.

3.) What was your favorite '90's television show?

Man! There were so many good ones! 'All That' was amazing. It was like an SNL for kids. I used to love 'Clarissa Explains it All,' and 'Bill Nye the Science Guy' ruled! Oh, and who didn't love 'The Wonder Years?'