Mickey Guyton

Fortunately, the reaction has been incredibly positive.

Country stars have enviable bank accounts, elaborate homes and a whole lot of stage time. They hit up red carpets and fly around the world, getting mobbed by fans wherever they go. But could it be that, despite those obvious differences, country stars are just like us?

"Step outside of yourself for a moment and consider other people," she tells them.

Mickey Guyton's new song "Black Like Me" describes a childhood spent feeling different and out of place because of her skin color, but the singer says it was inspired by her struggles in Nashville, too.

These five songs from the first half of the year have each made a huge impact on the genre: They've connected with fans and helped mark an important chapter in history that won't soon be forgotten.

Mickey Guyton, who is one of mainstream country music's few black artists, is grateful for the public displays of support, especially from those she did not necessarily expect to speak out so directly.

Jana Kramer's husband Michael Caussin was insensitive, ignorant or worse.

"If you think we live in the land of the free / You should try to be black like me ..."

D'awwww!

Mickey Guyton's powerful new song addresses a world that builds its young women up -- only to tear them down.