‘For Love & Country’ Documentary To Highlight Black Artists in Country Music

Amazon Music recently announced For Love & Country, a new feature-length original documentary that proclaims country music has always been Black music. 

The documentary gives recognition to Black history and all of the elements of country music that were derived from Black musicians. Joshua Kissi, the director and photographer, narrows in on the personal stories of Black artists making it in the music scene in Nashville.

Kissi says, “What I’ve come to realize is country music as a genre is just as complex as this country itself. Now is the moment to stand up for the voices that have always mattered throughout time, especially the musicians who didn’t get the credit when it was due.”

For Love & Country examines country music through the personal stories of a new generation of Black artists claiming space in Nashville—and helping to transform the genre in the process. 

“I’ve always believed in the old saying, ‘if you can see it, you can be it,’” says Mickey Guyton, who is featured in the film. “However, it’s no secret there has been a lack of representation of Black artists in mainstream country music for years. That’s why I hope little Black girls growing up now can see us, artists like Brittney, Reyna, Amythyst, Allison, Valerie, Frankie and me, and know they have a place here in country music. We all do.”

In addition to Guyton, the film will also features interviews and performance from artists such as Jimmie Allen, Blanco Brown, Breakthrough Artist for Amazon Music BRELAND, Shy Carter, Mickey Guyton, Willie Jones, Valerie June, Amythyst Kiah, Reyna Roberts, Allison Russell, Brittney Spencer, and Frankie Staton. 

The trailer for For Love & Country can be viewed above. The film will be available for viewing via Prime Video and the Amazon Music app on April 7^th.