“Tift is an important Artist”] in my life for a myriad of reasons.   TIft Merritt is one of the first artists I caught live in Durham, NC at the Americana music series at Fowlers Gourmet Market loading dock.   From the moment I heard her sing the first note I was smitten.  TIft has such a great Southern roots/rock/blues/country/ (see Americana) impossible to pigeonhole voice.  So many comparisons to great singers of the past yet her voice is her own-unique blend of styles and nature.   Did I mention the conversational persuasive style TIft employs when conveying the subtly nuanced emotions in her songs