Country music, a prominent genre of American music, has its roots entrenched in the South and Southwest of the United States. Emerging in the 1920s, this genre encapsulates narrative lyrical content predominantly reflecting the essence of working-class and blue-collar life in America. It is typified by storytelling ballads and foot-tapping dance numbers commonly referred to as "honky-tonk music." Its simplistic form and folk-inspired lyrics are often paired with a harmonious blend of string instruments like banjos, various types of guitars, fiddles, and harmonicas. The genre borrows from a melange of other forms of American folk music, notably old-time and Appalachian music; however, influences from Mexican, Irish, and Hawaiian melodies also play a significant role in shaping its character. Additionally, blues elements have been interwoven into the genre's fabric throughout its existence. Initially labeled as "hillbilly music," the term "country music" came into widespread use in the 1940s, covering a broader spectrum, including the parallel evolving "western music." This umbrella now spans various contemporary styles such as Texas country, red dirt, along with Tejano and New Mexico music—each maintaining a distinct presence while also sharing space with long-standing indigenous musical traditions. As of 2009, country music held a cherished spot in the United States' cultural soundscape, dominating the evening rush hour radio listening and ranking as the second favorite during morning commutes. The genre was formally recognized as a form of Southern American music in the early twentieth century, coinciding with the advent of music recording, confirming its significance in the country's diverse musical heritage.

The relationship between creative prowess and mental health challenges has been a subject of intrigue and investigation for many years. Notably, certain mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder, autism, schizophrenia, depression, anxiety, OCD, and ADHD, seem to occur more frequently among people in imaginative professions. There is some evidence to suggest that mental illness might enhance creative abilities; however, it is also recognized that creativity can flourish independently of it. Historical accounts suggest that this connection is not new. Renowned playwrights, novelists, and artists have experienced major depressive disorder at a higher incidence than the general populace. Academic discussions of the link of mental illness with creativity began in the 1970s, though the notion itself reaches back to antiquity. Aristotle was attributed with the idea that a great mind was never without a trace of madness. The term "genius" has been used to label various forms of brilliance, whether in writing, arts, scholarship, or as a more general accolade. The ancient Greeks, for instance, attributed imaginative talent to divine origins, specifically the Muses—the nine goddesses embodying the arts and sciences. In this view, great mental capacity was thought to be linked with physical conditions, and the same traits leading to notable creative achievements were also associated with states of deep sadness. Romantic writers echoed this perspective, one vividly remarking that all who are creative are in some capacity "crazy," whether their demeanor is dominated by joviality or by melancholy. It's suggested that those who experience mental illness might possess the ability to perceive the world in unique and innovative ways, seeing things others may not.

American singer-songwriter Taylor Swift has emerged as a powerful political figure whose impact is recognized and discussed by both the media and politicians worldwide. Although initially she avoided public political statements, possibly influenced by the backlash faced by the Dixie Chicks in 2003, Swift’s approach shifted dramatically with the political landscape following Donald Trump's election as the 45th U.S. president. In 2018, she openly declared her political opinions, endorsing Democratic candidates in Tennessee for the U.S. midterm elections via a widely noticed Instagram post. Her political views reflect liberal values, as she actively supports causes such as abortion rights, gender equality, LGBT rights, and condemns racism, white supremacy, police violence, sexism, and homophobia. Swift has been vocal against certain Trump policies and officials, including Tennessee Senator Marsha Blackburn. Additionally, she has thrown her support behind the Equality Act, establishing Juneteenth as a national holiday, and removing Confederate monuments in Tennessee. In the 2020 U.S. presidential race, she endorsed Democrat Joe Biden. Despite her popularity, Swift's open support for these issues and causes has triggered considerable criticism from the political right, Trump enthusiasts, and those with conservative views who perceive her as excessively progressive, or "woke". Some extreme members of the right once absurdly speculated she could be an "Aryan" icon due to her prior silence on political issues. Post her political activism, some conservative outlets have propagated unfounded theories, branding her as involved in a government conspiracy. Additionally, despite her clear stance in support of the Democratic Party, she has faced scrutiny from certain liberal commentators as well.