Tift Merritt is a Grammy-nominated songwriter and one of Americana’s most quietly influential voices. Originally drawn to writing before learning guitar through her father’s Percy Sledge songs, she has spent over two decades crafting a body of work defined by southern roots, poetic lyricism, and emotional depth. From her landmark debut Bramble Rose to the Grammy-nominated Tambourine, her music has earned lasting praise for its intimacy, independence, and enduring influence.

Beyond the stage, Merritt’s work spans storytelling, archival research, and artist advocacy. A Practitioner-in-Residence at Duke University, she explores creative process and cultural memory through projects like The Spark and her ongoing archival work, while continuing to champion musicians’ rights. Her latest album, Sugar—her first in nearly a decade—finds her returning with a luminous, deeply personal collection recorded live in Nashville, capturing an intimate, unguarded energy and exploring love, resilience, and the quiet sweetness of everyday life.

Additionally, Merritt is part of the revisioning of The Gables, a 18-room hotel, bar and gathering space in Raleigh, NC, set to open this July.