Alabama singer advances on ‘America’s Got Talent’: Laurel Taylor of Butter & Grit

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August 16, 2026

Montgomery native Laurel Taylor has advanced in “America’s Got Talent” and will perform live on Tuesday, August 18.

Taylor is part of the Country Trap duo ‘Butter & Grit’, along with guitarist Luke Michael. They will next perform on ‘AGT Live Shows’ airing on NBC at 7 p.m. CDT Tuesday and streaming the next day on Peacock.

The two advanced from earlier preliminary judging in Season 21.

The dynamic artist, producer, and singer/songwriter is now based in Nashville and has 15 years experience in the music industry. Originally from Montgomery, she made the bold move to the Music City at eighteen. She has performed on stages from the “American Idol” platform to iconic venues like Tootsie’s on Broadway, captivating audiences with her raw country sound and unique style.

Now, Laurel is taking her music in an exciting new direction by diving headfirst into the emerging ‘Country Trap’ genre. This innovative fusion blends the heart and soul of classic country with the energy and edge of trap beats, creating a fresh and groundbreaking sound. As one of the first female artists to embrace Country Trap, Laurel is once again trailblazing her own path in the music world.

Laurel’s journey from country roots to this bold new sound is a testament to her versatility and passion for pushing musical boundaries.

With a unique, Southern country name like Butter & Grit, it was only natural that they picked up a major sponsor — Cracker Barrel, where there is plenty of butter and grits.

Butter & Grit next performs in Sweet Home Alabama on September 26, 2026 in Tallassee at the historic Mt. Vernon Theater at 5:30 p.m. Details and tickets: Butter and Grit Tallassee Tickets, Mt. Vernon Theatre Sep 26, 2026 | Bandsintown.

Jim ‘Zig’ Zeigler is a freelance writer about the colorful and positive in Alabama — her people, places, events, groups and prominent deaths. He is a former State Auditor. You can reach him for comments at ZeiglerElderCare@yahoo.com.