Parker McCollum is set to release his newest single, “What Kinda Man,” on September 13th, a slow ballad that recalls some of his earlier material from albums Probably Wrong. After teasing the song in a rough acoustic demo on TikTok in January, anticipation has been building for what is expected to be a deeply emotional track, reminiscent of his earlier, rawer sound.
The song, which McCollum has been performing live at recent shows, leans into his reflective, introspective side along the lines of “Hell of a Year” and “Rest of My Life.” Fans who have followed McCollum’s career from the beginning have noted that this new song feels like a return to the rootsy, heart-on-sleeve style that defined his breakout releases, geared towards fans who were missing a signature song on Never Enough.
Drawing comparisons to his earlier eras on the Texas country scene, “What Kinda Man” showcases McCollum’s ability to blend vulnerability with a stripped-down, organic sound. While McCollum’s recent hits, like “Pretty Heart” and “Handle on You,” have brought him mainstream success, this song feels like a deliberate nod to his more personal, storytelling roots.
Live performances of “What Kinda Man” have given fans a preview of its slow-burning, John Mayer-esque balladry, with McCollum’s signature, expressive emotion. The song’s lyrics reflect on love, self-awareness, and the weight of being a better man — themes that have always been at the heart of his music.
As McCollum has continued to evolve as an artist, “What Kinda Man” serves as a reminder of the qualities that first drew fans to him: authentic storytelling, a soulful delivery, and a sound steeped in Texas country traditions.
“What Kinda Man” will be available on all streaming platforms on Friday September 13th; from the teases we’ve heard, the full experience of this track that already feels like a classic McCollum ballad.
