Meet Country Singer-Songwriter (and Best New Artist Nominee)...

Meet Country Singer-Songwriter (and Best New Artist Nominee) Maren Morris

To learn more about Maren, follow @marenmorris on Instagram.

“I always look up to artists who have gumption — people who aren’t afraid to go left of center and create their own sound,” says singer-songwriter Maren Morris (@marenmorris), citing musicians steeped in country and soul, like Johnny Cash, Sheryl Crow, Merle Haggard and Etta James, as major influences on her album Hero. This year, the 26-year-old who lives in Nashville, Tennessee, is nominated for four Grammy Awards (@recordingacademy) including Best New Artist.

“I always get melody ideas after midnight and quickly try to record them on my phone before they leave the ether forever,” says Maren, who recently spent time in Grand Cayman, relaxing and writing music. “My mind was able to turn off for a bit from the real world and access the creative side of me that doesn’t overthink or insecurely judge what is a good lyric.” In addition to her nominations, Maren will perform at the Grammys. “I’ll be posting every step of the way!” she says.

by via Instagram Blog