Celebrate the Heart of Country, Americana, and Roots Music!

Drop Us A Line, Y'all

Y'all interested in advertising, partnering up, contributing stories, joining our team, or just got a question? Well, don't be shy, drop us a line!

Follow Us

Hannah Kay Honors Loretta Lynn in Powerful “Coal Miner’s Daughter” Performance

Hannah Kay Honors Loretta Lynn in Powerful "Coal Miner's Daughter" Performance
by
  • Riley is a Senior Country Music Journalist for Country Thang Daily, known for her engaging storytelling and insightful coverage of the genre.
  • Before joining Country Thang Daily, Riley developed her expertise at Billboard and People magazine, focusing on feature stories and music reviews.
  • Riley has a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from Belmont University, with a minor in Cultural Studies.

In a world where country music continually evolves, some voices remind us of its timeless roots. In 2019, then-18-year-old Texas singer Hannah Kay did just that with her moving rendition of Loretta Lynn’s classic “Coal Miner’s Daughter” during her blind audition for The Voice Season 17. This heartfelt performance was more than a showcase of vocal talent; it was a tribute to one of the genre’s most cherished songs. Right from the first note, Hannah captured the attention of judges Blake Shelton and Kelly Clarkson, who pressed their “I Want You” buttons, vying to have her join their teams.

A Homage to Classic Country on Modern TV

Hannah’s choice of “Coal Miner’s Daughter” revealed her deep respect for classic country music, a style not often heard on today’s mainstream platforms. Originally written and performed by Loretta Lynn, the song recounts Lynn’s struggles and the simplicity of her upbringing, connecting deeply with audiences across generations. As Hannah performed, her voice carried an authentic, old-time quality that felt like a refreshing throwback to country music’s golden era, far removed from the genre’s modern pop-leaning trend. Her high notes were unforced and pure, a voice that transported listeners to an era when country was celebrated for its raw emotion and storytelling.

Both Shelton and Clarkson were visibly impressed. Shelton, a longstanding advocate for traditional country music, recognized Hannah as an artist who could potentially revive the genre’s roots within a mainstream setting. He remarked on the dwindling presence of “old country style.” He saw in Hannah a rare opportunity to reintroduce this classic feel to new audiences. His admiration influenced Hannah’s decision, ultimately leading her to choose Shelton as her coach. This move aligned with her dedication to staying true to her musical roots.

Loretta Lynn’s Seal of Approval

A shout-out from Loretta Lynn made Hannah’s journey even more special. The country legend, who has shaped the genre for generations, took to Facebook to express her pride and support. “I was honored that Hannah Kay picked the song that means the most to me,” Lynn wrote, extending her warm encouragement to the young artist. This endorsement wasn’t just a celebrity’s nod; it felt like a passing of the torch, recognizing Hannah’s ability to capture the genuine emotion embedded in the song’s lyrics. Lynn’s message also drew admiration from fans, who praised both the rising star and the timeless icon she honored.

RELATED: Loretta Lynn’s Handwritten ‘Coal Miner’s Daughter’ Lyrics You’ve Never Seen Before

In response, Hannah posted a heartfelt note on Instagram, acknowledging Lynn’s immense influence on her musical path. This moment solidified her place within The Voice and the country music community, which cherishes connections between artists across generations.

A Journey with Team Blake

While Shelton and Clarkson eagerly sought to mentor her, Shelton’s words resonated the most. Choosing Shelton was rooted in Hannah’s long-time admiration for the country star, who has been her idol since she was six. More than just fulfilling a personal dream, this choice reflected Hannah’s commitment to the classic country sound she grew up loving. Together, they envisioned a path where she could share this sound with a broader audience, blending tradition with contemporary appeal.

Unfortunately, as Idol Chatter reported, Hannah didn’t win the competition despite the initial excitement surrounding her performance. The title for Season 17 ultimately went to Maelyn Jarmon. However, her journey on The Voice left a lasting impression, establishing her as an artist with a unique voice and a deep respect for the roots of country music.

Keeping Country’s Legacy Alive

Hannah Kay’s audition was more than a simple performance; it was a testament to the enduring power of classic country music. With Shelton’s mentorship and Lynn’s blessing, she began a journey that carried her beyond the limits of a single competition. By honoring one of country’s most iconic songs, Hannah reminded audiences of the music’s rich heritage. She offered a refreshing glimpse of its soul.

For those who missed it, her rendition of “Coal Miner’s Daughter” is a must-watch. It is a powerful moment that celebrates the roots of country music and a young artist’s dedication to preserving its spirit.

Latest Stories

John Schneider’s ‘Dukes of Hazzard’ tribute honors Rick Hurst, pictured here as Deputy Cletus Hogg with the cast smiling.

‘Dukes of Hazzard’ Star John Schneider Honors Rick Hurst With Heartbreaking Tribute

Sometimes, the characters you remember best weren’t the heroes behind the wheel but the guys you’d see rolling their eyes and shaking their heads when the dust settled. Rick Hurst ...

Taylor Swift smiles while strumming a guitar onstage in Nashville, sparking rumors about a possible country music return.

Taylor Swift Crashes Kane Brown’s Nashville Set and Now Everyone’s Wondering if She’s Going Country Again

Taylor Swift showed up in Nashville like a pop comet trying to burn her way back into country music’s atmosphere. It all went down at Tight End University’s charity concert ...

Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton burst into laughter during a playful, no-holds-barred roast session on her talk show set.

Kelly Clarkson and Blake Shelton Bicker Like Siblings in a New Interview and It’s TV Gold

Two country megastars walk into a studio. One has 30 number ones and a new album, while the other is hosting the show but not having it. Cue the fireworks. ...

Josh Ross onstage at the Grand Ole Opry before his "best country" comment set social media ablaze north of the border.

Canadian Country Star Slammed for Saying America Is “The Best Country” Then Forced to Apologize

Well, that didn’t take long to blow up. Canadian country artist Josh Ross found himself in a hot mess this week after declaring America “the best f***ing country in the ...

Luke Bryan worked the stage like a champ here, but after this week's illness, Eric Church is the one holding the mic now.

Luke Bryan Cancels More Shows Over Illness and Eric Church Just Took the Wheel Like a Boss

Sometimes the show goes on, just not with the guy printed on the damn ticket. Luke Bryan announced this week that he’s canceling three major festival appearances due to an ...

Ronnie McDowell looked strong in 2022. And after that mid-show stroke this week, he's proving he still won't back down.

Country Music Veteran Ronnie McDowell Suffers Stroke Mid-Show and Gets Rushed to the Hospital

Country music veteran Ronnie McDowell suffered a mini-stroke on stage Saturday night while performing at the Summer Solstice Festival in Oley, Pennsylvania, prompting an immediate halt to the show and ...

Loretta Lynn smiles beside husband Doo Lynn in a warm throwback. Two legends in one frame, both tougher than they look.

Loretta Lynn’s Husband to Receive Long-Overdue Military Honor After His Passing

Some honors come too late, but they still hit like freight trains when they finally land. Oliver “Doolittle” Lynn Jr., better known as Doo, has long been a name etched ...

Dolly Parton beams in rhinestone gold, guitar in hand, proving once again she's the only Vegas act who breaks the internet.

Dolly Parton’s Vegas Residency Sold Out in Minutes and Fans Are Begging for More

Only Dolly Parton can blow up the internet with six shows in Sin City and leave hundreds of thousands of fans empty-handed and seething before noon. On June 25, the ...

Gretchen Wilson flashes a smirk that says, “Y’all really thought I was gone?” The Redneck Woman might just be revving back up.

Whatever Happened to Gretchen Wilson? The “Redneck Woman” Star’s Shocking Comeback

You don’t sell millions of records, torch the charts, and redefine what it means to be a badass woman in country music only to fade quietly into the background. But ...

Zach Bryan smiles like a man who just tipped $7,000 after a pint—and made someone’s college dreams come true in Dublin.

Zach Bryan Drops $7,000 Tip in Dublin to Help a Young Staffer Pay for College

Only Zach Bryan could waltz into an Irish pub, knock back a pint, and casually throw down a college scholarship on the way out. While some artists kick off their ...