Virginia born Babeo Baggins may be young, but the 25-year-old songstress already has a full-blown music career.

A few years back, she founded the all-girl rap outfit Barf Troop, which caught the attention of pop idols Drake and Ariana Grande, and now, trusty banjo in hand, she’s minted a new take on country, fusing the Bible Belt honky-tonk she loves with a modern R&B twist. That may sound about as appealing as a peanut butter and tuna fish sandwich, but trust us, after one listen you’ll be hooked.

When did you start making music?

I’ve been making music all my life, but professionally, I started about four years ago with three of my best friends. It’s been a long journey and I can’t believe everything that’s happened in that time span; it’s almost unbelievable the world I’ve made for myself. I wouldn’t change it for anything.

What do you love most about Virginia and how has it inspired your new musical direction?

I love everything about it, from the mountains, valleys, and rivers to the kindness of its people. Even when I’ve lived in different states, there has only ever been one “home” for me and it will always be the Shenandoah Valley. My home has taught me so much about myself and about how important honesty is in everything, and I think that more than anything is the inspiration behind my new project. I want my work to speak for me in the most honest and truthful way. There ain’t nothing to hide behind where I’m from — everything is exactly what it is, and to me that’s how it should be.

What’s been your career highlight so far?

I think just having a career at all in the thing I love most has been the biggest highlight. I did all of this on my own with little to no outside help. I didn’t know anything about making music or being in the music industry, and I had to learn some hard lessons, but I’m better for it. Besides that, playing banjo live for the first time was a big one.

Which artists inspire you?

As much as I love making music, I love listening to it even more. My biggest musical inspirations have to be Hank Williams and Young Thug. I know they are drastically different sonically, but when it comes to honesty in art, those two take the cake. Hank was the king of simple and honest songwriting — he was the lovesick cowboy! Unafraid to be. Young Thug is a complete artistic visionary. He’s so true to himself and doesn’t compromise himself for anyone. If I could be as honest as Hank Williams and as brave as Young Thug in my art, I think I’d be set.

Find more of Babeo Baggins on Spotify, Instagram, and Twitter: @babeobaggins