Country singer Makenzie Phipps, the Bluefield, Virginia native who has been capturing national attention with her powerful voice and heartfelt storytelling, returns with her newest single, "Whiskey Kills The Time." Fresh off her appearance on The Voice and continued recognition from her hometown-including receiving the Key to the Town and the Outstanding Citizen Award-Phipps continues to build momentum as one of country music's promising young voices. The new track marks another chapter in her growing career, showcasing the authentic country sound and emotional honesty that have helped her connect with audiences across the country.
Q: For readers who may be discovering you for the first time, how would you describe yourself as an artist and the musical journey that led you from Bluefield, Virginia to the national stage on The Voice?
I would describe myself as a simplistic Southern gal-what you see is what you get. I was raised in a small town, and I definitely keep those small-town roots alive and well. Those roots show a lot in my personality as well as through my music, and they are definitely what keep me going in this industry. Hard work will pay off over time; you just have to keep pushing through the storm.
Q: Your blind audition on The Voice was such a powerful and emotional moment that captured the attention of millions. Looking back, how did that experience change your life and shape your path as an artist?
It was truly an honor even being part of The Voice process. It showed me so many different things, not only about music but about life too. Being surrounded by so many insanely talented individuals who share the same interest as you-and who understand everything you've been through just being in music-was so refreshing. My time on the show showed me that I am capable of so much and that I truly am confident in who I am as an artist. I've had a more positive and determined mindset since being off the show with my music journey, and I can't wait to continue seeing what comes along the way in the future.
Q: Your new single "Whiskey Kills The Time" marks your first release since appearing on The Voice. What inspired the story behind the song, and what drew you to record it?
I am so excited to finally be releasing this song! It's been on the back burner for quite some time only because I was trying to figure out exactly what I wanted to do with it. The song came about a few years ago when Shane Begley introduced it to me. He had written the majority of the song, and when he pitched it to me, I helped write the bridge and then it all came together perfectly. When I went into the studio and recorded it, I had continued-months after-putting out more and more songs about alcohol and decided it might be time to turn to new topics to write about. So I hadn't released it yet for that reason, but I just couldn't keep letting it sit to the side. That's why I decided to let this song be the one that wraps up my "alcohol-themed" songs with the Pick Your Poison EP. I'm very excited to see what people think of it.
Q: Growing up in Bluefield, Virginia clearly played an important role in your journey, and your hometown recently honored you with the Key to the Town and even declared "Makenzie Phipps Day." What did that recognition mean to you personally?
It means the absolute world to me to have all of the support that I've been given from my hometown. They have always referred to me as "the little girl with the big voice," and they have always believed in me when I decided to take on this crazy career. To be honored in this way is a feeling like no other, and I am proud to be a Bluefield, VA native! Go G-Men!
Q: You've performed everything from classic hymns like "Amazing Grace" to traditional country favorites, while also releasing new original music. How do those influences shape the sound and identity you're building as an artist today?
I have always loved so many genres of music-that's the beauty in music. There's something out there for everyone, and for me, country and gospel go hand in hand. I always give all the glory to my Lord above for blessing me with the gift of music and singing, and I do it all for Him. I do sing gospel songs at my shows every now and then, but my heart really is just downright country. I think my love for so many artists out there-like Loretta Lynn, Miranda Lambert, and Ashley McBryde-has made me into the artist I want to be. I really look up to them and hope to be as big as them one day in the industry.
Q: As you release "Whiskey Kills The Time" and look toward the next chapter of your career, what can fans expect from you musically in the months ahead?
I am so excited to continue doing shows this year, as well as showing people what kind of music I write. I have been putting a lot of focus this year on songwriting, and I have almost the whole year planned out with what I want to release and when. Folks can stay updated on all I have going on through my social media pages and website: makenziephipps.com. No doubt, 2026 is going to be another incredible year!
For more, visit makenziephipps.com.
