As far as blending genres I much prefer how Sturgill blended some Funk and Soul into his music. In Northern NH we have a weird blend of hicks and hipster that form the hybrid of hickster. I've found with anyone that listens to Hick-Hop it's the beginning of a trend where we won't agree on anything period. Coincidence? I don't know!
I agree on Sturgill Simpson, although I don't listen to his music that often.
I have great respect for Nelly and his love of country music. He's done several country covers and his duet with Tim McGraw was really good. If you listen to some of his music, you can hear the country influence.....
I confess, I like Nelly.