The actress stars in new movie Country Strong as a young country music singer who admires and then rivals an established country star, played by Gywneth Paltrow.
And the 24-year-old ended up being inspired by current country girls.
She told US entertainment show Extra: 'I went to the Grand Ole Opry and saw Carrie Underwood and went to a few honky tonks, too.
'I tried to make it my own, but I was definitely inspired by Carrie Underwood and Taylor Swift.'
Meester added: 'I went into the studio and sang my heart out.'
Leighton was impressed by Chris Martin's wife's performance.
She said: 'She really showed her chops, playing the guitar and performing the hell out of it.
'My character is supposed to admire and look up to her, and I do, too. You have to rise to the occasion when you play opposite her.'