Singer-songwriter and recording artist Miko Marks, accompanied by Effie Zilch and Steve Wyreman, performs songs she has written and shares the stories behind them. This program was recorded on March 11, 2023, and is presented in support of the Museum’s 2023 edition of the exhibition “American Currents: State of the Music,” which explores musical developments, artist achievements, and notable events that transpired over the prior year.

Miko Marks grew up in Flint, Michigan, where she learned about country music from her Mississippi-born grandmother and about fighting for equality from her mother. Later, she earned her degree in political science and planned to become a criminal defense attorney, but after winning a singing competition, she focused on pursuing a career in country music. In the 2000s, Marks released two albums, “Freeway Bound” and “It Feels Good,” but ultimately left Nashville after facing discrimination in the industry. Though Marks continued performing, she didn’t release another album until 2021’s “Our Country.” In 2022, she released the album “Feel Like Going Home,” made her Grand Ole Opry debut, and was named one of CMT’s Next Women of Country. These accomplishments led to her inclusion in “American Currents: State of the Music.”

Marks, alongside one of her idols, Loretta Lynn, is featured in the “Unbroken Circle” section of the exhibition, which highlights the musical connections of artists, including those who have influenced them. After Loretta Lynn’s death in 2022, Marks said, “I have her to thank for reaffirming what resilience and determination can look like.”

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