Durham’s Rissi Palmer, who became the first African-American woman to reach the country charts in 20 years upon release of her self-titled debut, joins us to discuss her life as a closeted country fan. Although she grew up listening to Kenny Rogers and Trisha Yearwood, Rissi opted instead to blast the Rush Hour soundtrack in the parking lot of her suburban St. Louis high school. She discusses her love for the Dixie Chicks, her experiences navigating Nashville as a woman of color, and how her new album melds soul and country influences.

Rissi's pick: "You Were Mine" by the Dixie Chicks, 1998

Check out Rissi's new album at http://www.rissipalmermusic.com