Miranda Lambert, a prominent figure in country music for over two decades, is embracing a new creative chapter with the release of her 10th solo album, *Crisco*. Known in the 2000s and 2010s as a tough, gritty storyteller who often explored the harsher sides of life in her music, Lambert’s latest work departs from that mold with a lighter, more playful sound. The album draws from the upbeat, groove-oriented styles of 1970s and 1980s country, featuring strings and danceable beats that contrast with the raw storytelling that marked much of her earlier catalog.

Lambert, 42, also recently stepped into a mentorship role as the executive producer of Ella Langley’s debut album, *Dandelion*. Langley gained widespread attention with her hit single “Choosin’ Texas,” which remained atop the Billboard Hot 100 for 24 weeks—a rare achievement for a country track. Lambert described Langley as confident and strong-willed, qualities she related to from her own early days in Nashville. The veteran artist recounted how Langley approached her about producing the record at the Academy of Country Music Awards, leading to a collaborative songwriting retreat that yielded “Choosin’ Texas.” Although the process involved disagreements and creative tensions, Lambert viewed those moments as necessary to producing an authentic and meaningful project.

Reflecting on her own career, Lambert acknowledged the challenges she faced as one of the few successful female artists in country music during the early 2000s, alongside peers like Carrie Underwood. She described an industry environment that often emphasized appearance over artistic identity, highlighting her reluctance to conform to expectations such as adopting a more conventional, glamorous image. Lambert noted that female representation in country music has improved in recent years, attributing the shift to changes in music consumption fueled by social media and streaming platforms that have made space for diverse voices.

Lambert also discussed her evolving relationship with fellow country singer Kacey Musgraves. The two, longtime acquaintances who had a previously chilly rapport, collaborated earlier this year on the duet “Horses and Divorces,” a song symbolizing reconciliation. Lambert said they decided to leave behind past grievances, calling their renewed connection a sign of maturity and mutual respect as female artists navigating the complexities of the music business.

In terms of creative direction, Lambert explained that *Crisco* draws inspiration from classic country and pop influences such as Glen Campbell, Dolly Parton, Kenny Rogers, and the Bee Gees. The album also features a cover of a Jim Croce song, reflecting Lambert's intention to explore a broader musical palette than her previous “three-chords-and-the-truth” style rooted in Merle Haggard’s tradition. To complement the album’s playful tone, Lambert created music videos for each track, incorporating elements aimed at engaging newer audiences while maintaining her authenticity.

Lambert’s career began with a stint on the reality competition show *Nashville Star* in 2003, though she did not win. She credits her early years performing in honky-tonks for developing her craft and resilience. Candid about the challenges of fame, she emphasized the importance of maintaining privacy and surrounding herself with honest advisors to stay grounded amid the demands of the music industry.

With *Crisco* and her work supporting emerging artists like Langley, Miranda Lambert appears to be embracing both creative freedom and a collaborative spirit, reflecting her growth as an artist and an advocate for women in country music.