Tayla Lynn: Carrying the Coal Miner’s Daughter’s Flame with a Voice All Her Own
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In the vast landscape of country music, legacies are often carried forward by new generations, but few inherit a mantle as iconic as that of Loretta Lynn. Her granddaughter, Tayla Lynn, is not just carrying that legacy; she’s nurturing it, expanding upon it, and weaving her own compelling narrative into its rich tapestry. With the recent announcement of her upcoming album, Singin’ Loretta, and the single “I Wanna Be Free,” Tayla is once again proving that the Lynn family’s storytelling prowess runs deep.
The collaboration between Heart of Texas Records and StarVista Music on Singin’ Loretta signals a significant moment for fans of classic country. The album is designed as a heartfelt homage to Loretta Lynn, featuring a blend of her most celebrated hits and some deeper cuts that showcase the breadth of her songwriting. The lead single, “I Wanna Be Free,” which recently premiered with The Hollywood Times, is a prime example of Tayla’s approach. It’s a respectful and sincere rendition of a well-loved song, capturing the raw emotion and classic storytelling that made Loretta a legend, yet infused with Tayla’s distinctive vocal texture and personal interpretation. It’s a delicate balance of honoring the original while making it undeniably her own.
For Tayla, this album is more than just a tribute; it’s a profound connection to her roots. “Memaw has been the constant fixture in my life and the lives of millions,” she shares, acknowledging the indelible mark her grandmother left on her and the world. Tracks like “Out Of My Head And Back In My Bed,” “Rated ‘X’,” “Blue Kentucky Girl,” and “You’re Lookin’ at Country” are present, alongside less-often heard gems such as “There He Goes” and “The Titanic.” This curated selection promises an album that appeals to both casual listeners and ardent Loretta Lynn enthusiasts, offering both familiarity and fresh perspectives.
Tayla Lynn’s journey in music was, by her own admission, always her only path. There was no “Plan B.” From an early age, she graced stages alongside her grandmother, absorbing the essence of country music firsthand. Her talent led her to collaborate with acclaimed songwriters like James House, Gary Burr, Leslie Satcher, and Jon Randall, honing her craft. A development deal with RCA Records further propelled her forward, leading to the formation of the trio Stealing Angels with Caroline Hobby and Jennifer Wayne. From 2007 to 2012, Stealing Angels toured extensively, even performing for troops abroad and working with Grammy-winning producer Paul Worley, cementing Tayla’s experience in the demanding world of professional music.
After stepping back to embrace marriage and motherhood, a move to Seattle surprisingly reignited her musical fire. Her return to Tennessee saw her once again performing with Loretta and, significantly, forming the dynamic duo Twitty and Lynn with Tre Twitty in 2018. Their partnership has been prolific, with over 100 shows annually and the recent release of their debut album, Cookin’ Up Lovin’, in April 2024. This isn’t Tayla’s first solo foray into her grandmother’s catalog; she released Tayla Lynn Sings Loretta Lynn in 2022, with Still Singing Loretta Lynn slated for 2025, demonstrating a consistent and dedicated exploration of Loretta’s immense body of work. Beyond covers, Tayla also continues to write her own material, collaborating with talents like Mark Narmore and Scott Baggett, ensuring her original voice finds expression alongside the cherished classics.
Tayla Lynn is, in essence, a multi-faceted artist. Beyond her captivating vocal performances, she’s a comedian and actress, known for a raw honesty and soulful stage presence that connects deeply with audiences. She embodies the spirit of her heritage while carving out a bold, authentic path. This entrepreneurial drive is also evident in her co-ownership of MEPOP Records and her own booking agency, showcasing a keen business acumen alongside her artistic endeavors. Her discography, including Tayla Sings Loretta Lynn and Cookin’ Up Lovin’, reflects this blend of reverence and innovation.
Yet, perhaps what makes Tayla truly compelling is what lies beyond the bright lights. She is a devoted wife and mother, a passionate advocate for sobriety and spiritual healing, and a storyteller with just the right amount of sass. Her live performances are renowned for tales that can evoke tears one moment and uproarious laughter the next, a testament to her authenticity and relatability.
In “I Wanna Be Free” and the forthcoming Singin’ Loretta, Tayla Lynn offers more than just music; she offers a continuation of a beloved narrative. She is not merely singing her grandmother’s songs; she is living the legacy, adding new chapters to a story that resonates with millions, all while crafting a unique identity that promises to endure for generations to come.
Photo by Jon Finger