In the midst of a genre-bending revolution, Kacey Musgraves’ ‘Golden Hour’ shone bright like a beacon of innovation, defying country music conventions and captivating listeners from all walks of life. Released in 2018, this Grammy-sweeping masterpiece has been hailed as a sonic masterpiece, with its dreamy, psychedelic-infused soundscapes and poignant, introspective lyrics. But beneath the album’s shimmering surface lies a wealth of fascinating secrets, surprising inspirations, and creative choices that have contributed to its enduring allure. From the recording process to the album’s thematic underpinnings, ‘Golden Hour’ is full of hidden gems waiting to be unearthed. In this article, we’ll shine a light on five surprising facts about Kacey Musgraves’ magnum opus, ‘Golden Hour’, that will leave even the most ardent fans in awe.
The Making of a Masterpiece
Songwriting Sessions
Kacey Musgraves’ Unconventional Collaborations: How LSD Inspired Two Songs
When Kacey Musgraves embarked on the songwriting process for Golden Hour, she didn’t shy away from unconventional approaches. One of the most notable examples is her experimentation with LSD. Musgraves has spoken candidly about the experience, crediting it with opening up her imagination and inspiring two songs: “Mother” and “Slow Burn”.
The songs’ introspective, almost otherworldly tones owe a little of their magic to that wide-open sense of wonder Musgraves embraced during that time. It’s no surprise that “Mother” and “Slow Burn” are two of the album’s most beloved tracks, with their haunting melodies and poignant lyrics.
The Power of Nature: Writing Parts of Golden Hour Above a Horse Stable
Believe it or not, parts of Golden Hour were written and recorded in a studio perched above Sheryl Crow’s horse stable. The peaceful, pastoral setting seeped into the album’s dreamy, nature-soaked atmosphere. It’s no wonder Golden Hour sounds like a slow ride across open fields – it was born in the calm between horses’ footsteps and quiet skies.
The studio’s rustic surroundings undoubtedly influenced the album’s sonic palette, with its lush instrumentation and ethereal production. Musgraves has spoken about the importance of immersing herself in nature during the writing process, citing the stable’s serene atmosphere as a key factor in the album’s creation.
The Inspiration Behind “Space Cowboy”: Letting Go and Finding Your Own Path
“Space Cowboy” was inspired by a simple yet profound moment in Musgraves’ life. While watching a stallion gallop freely in a riding arena, a riding instructor told her, “When they wanna go, they will go.” That simple statement hit her hard – and later became the inspiration for “Space Cowboy”.
Sometimes the best songs come from small, profound moments that remind us how important it is to let go and find our own path. “Space Cowboy” is a testament to this idea, with its soaring chorus and uplifting message.
Behind the Scenes
The Almost-Forgotten Cover Photo: A Spontaneous Moment Capturing the Spirit of the Album
The dreamy Golden Hour cover — Kacey holding a paper fan against a glowing sky — almost didn’t exist. Her sister, photographer Kelly Christine Sutton, wasn’t initially sold on the idea when Kacey suggested it. But when they found a wide-open Texas field with nothing but sky for miles, the vision clicked into place. That spontaneous moment captured the spirit of the album: simple, striking, and full of light.
The Importance of Sibling Collaboration: Kacey’s Sister, Photographer Kelly Christine Sutton
Kelly Christine Sutton, Kacey’s sister, played a vital role in capturing the essence of Golden Hour. Her photography skills and keen eye helped bring the album’s vision to life. The collaboration between the two sisters demonstrates the importance of family and the power of creative collaboration.
How “Rainbow” Became an Anthem for Healing and a Personal Farewell
“Rainbow” wasn’t just a beautiful album closer — it became a beacon of hope. Written years earlier as a note to herself, Musgraves later dedicated the song to anyone going through dark times. It’s especially dear to her because it was the last song her grandmother ever heard her write, making it a deeply personal farewell and a universal hug.
The Impact and Legacy of Golden Hour
Healing and Transformation
The Album’s Universally Praise and Grammy Wins
Golden Hour received widespread critical acclaim and won numerous Grammy Awards. The album’s impact on the music industry was significant, showcasing Kacey Musgraves’ unique blend of country, pop, and disco.
How Golden Hour Became a Beacon of Hope for Those Going Through Dark Times
Golden Hour became a beacon of hope for those struggling through difficult times. The album’s message of healing, transformation, and perseverance resonated with fans worldwide. Musgraves’ ability to craft songs that spoke to the human experience made the album a deeply personal and relatable work.
The Lasting Legacy of the Album and Its Impact on Fans
Golden Hour’s lasting legacy is a testament to the power of music to heal, transform, and uplift. The album’s impact on fans has been profound, providing a sense of hope and inspiration during challenging times. As a work of art, Golden Hour continues to inspire and influence new generations of musicians and music lovers alike.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our exploration of Kacey Musgraves’ groundbreaking album “Golden Hour” has revealed a multitude of surprising facts that shed new light on this critically acclaimed work. From the album’s genre-bending soundscapes to its introspective lyrics, we’ve seen how Musgraves pushed the boundaries of country music, incorporating elements of pop, folk, and psychedelia to create a truly innovative sound. We’ve also examined the role of her personal experiences, relationships, and introspection in shaping the album’s narrative, as well as the significant impact of her collaborative partnership with producers Daniel Tashian and Ian Fitchuk.
The significance of “Golden Hour” lies not only in its chart-topping success and numerous awards, but in its bold challenge to the traditional country music genre. By embracing experimentation and creative freedom, Musgraves has paved the way for future artists to explore new sounds and styles, expanding the possibilities of country music as a whole. As we look to the future, it will be fascinating to see how Musgraves’ influence shapes the next generation of country musicians, and how her legacy continues to inspire and push the genre forward.
Ultimately, “Golden Hour” is a testament to the power of artistic innovation and the importance of staying true to one’s creative vision. As Musgraves so eloquently puts it, “You can’t have a million-dollar dream with a minimum-wage work ethic.” Her dedication to her craft has resulted in a masterpiece that will continue to resonate with listeners for years to come, a shining example of what can be achieved when artistic passion and determination come together.