Mickey Guyton, the acclaimed country music artist, is embracing the joy of the holiday season, a sentiment that has deepened since becoming a mother. In a recent interview, she expressed how her 4-year-old son has completely changed her outlook on Christmas. “The older you get, it’s just a holiday you get to spend with your family, and traveling sucks, and it’s so hard,” she noted. “But now that my son is 4, the holiday season means so much more now.”
In line with her newfound joy, Guyton has launched a festive album titled “Feels Like Christmas,” which aims to spread positivity during a year that has been challenging for many. “It was something that I really had on my heart at the beginning of this year,” she said, highlighting her intention to create an uplifting collection. Instead of including the traditional melancholic holiday songs, the album features cheerful tracks, such as the original piece “Sugar Cookie” and a lively duet with the renowned artist Michael Bolton. “Christmas is one of those holidays that can be either very cheerful or a reminder of what is lost,” Guyton remarked. “And I didn’t want to do that.”
Guyton also shared a unique family tradition that adds an exciting twist to their holiday celebrations—a “cookout competition” featuring international cuisines. “We pick an international dish that we’ve never tried before and we cook it, and then we go around and we taste-test,” she explained. This light-hearted competition is taken seriously by participants, showcasing beautiful plating and thoughtful menu presentations. “My dad is very generous with this prize, and people take this very seriously,” she added, emphasizing how their gatherings are filled with fun and camaraderie.
As the holiday festivities draw near, Guyton mentioned her favorite seasonal songs played in her home. For trimming the Christmas tree, she insists on “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” by Brenda Lee, which she considers a must-have. She also cherishes “The Little Drummer Boy,” appreciating its deeper message. “The little drummer boy was a poor boy, and so all he did was give him what he had,” she stated, underscoring that true generosity transcends material gifts.
Her cherished holiday memories are steeped in music, notably from the soundtrack of “The Preacher’s Wife,” with Whitney Houston’s “I Believe in You and Me” being a standout favorite. Furthermore, she draws connections between her beloved holiday songs and movies, mentioning “The Trouble With Love Is” by Kelly Clarkson from “Love Actually” as an iconic tune that brings her joy.
To set the festive mood, Guyton recommends Mariah Carey’s classic “All I Want for Christmas Is You” as a timeless favorite, while also enjoying the poignant feelings evoked by “Christmas Time Is Here” from “A Charlie Brown Christmas.” “It does make me sad though,” she reflected, acknowledging the bittersweet emotions some holiday songs can bring.
As she prepares for the upcoming holiday season, Guyton is dedicated to fostering a joyful atmosphere through her music, treasured family traditions, and classic songs that celebrate the essence of togetherness and love.