Week of 05/10/2024
I Had Some Help – Post Malone, Morgan Wallen by Max Buondonno
It’s been a long time coming for country music fans worldwide, but we finally have Post Malone’s collaboration with Morgan Wallen. Written by Malone, ERNEST, Hoskins, Louis Bell, Wallen, and Charlie Handsome, “I Had Some Help” is the lead single from Malone’s upcoming country album, which will arrive sometime this year. Until then, we have this: an immensely charming blend of bright, pop production and acoustic country twang. The two styles create a single that deserves the highest volume setting on your speakers or headphones. Of course, it’s not free of critique. Neither Wallen nor Malone goes out of their way to impress on the vocal side, and the track feels overly polished to the point that it’s as if it was written with nothing but the radio in mind. It’s also void of any substance; we’ve heard the “two sides to every story, you drove me to drink” narrative a million times before, and while this song gives that concept a unique spin, the premise remains the same. That said, there’s no denying that “I Had Some Help” is infectious, dopamine-spiking, and nearly impossible to hate unless you’re tired of hearing the third chorus on TikTok.
8.1
Leroy – Tigirlily Gold by Brandon Iozzo
Newcoming country duo Tigirlily Gold set their standards and dating bar higher than most in the sassy and confident “Leroy” off their upcoming debut LP Blonde. The sisters depict an all-too-familiar story of a guy who gets a little too reckless while out with some friends, leading to a call to be picked up and dropped off at home. Written by Nora Collins, Jessie Jo Dillon, and Forest Glen Whitehead, the single is fitting for the duo, who play along with a relatable role while giving listeners a taste of their unapologetic style. The song grazes some production similarities to Florida Georgia Line’s “Sittin’ Pretty,” but its lyrics, combined with Kendra and Krista’s vibrant harmonies, create quite the earworm. With “I Tried A Ring On” already sent to country radio, we’ve enjoyed a much lighter side of the duo’s artistic sensibilities, and it feels like a real strong suit for them.
8.2
Stay By My Side – Silverada by Adam Delahoussaye
The grass is always greener, and the long road ahead for Michael Harmeier and the rest of Silverada seems to yearn for what it knows it can’t have just yet. “Stay By My Side” acts as a less-than-revved-up road trip anthem that illuminates all of the good and the bad aspects of the life of a troubadour. Sure, they may drink too much or shut down the bar nightly, but all those sins will be washed clean when they return to Tomball, Texas, for a home-cooked meal. However, returning to the comforts of home will no doubt evade them for as long as they’re still welcome at those favorite honky-tonks. Somewhere between the wandering spirit of Willie Nelson and the satirical genius of Terry Allen rests Silverada, perched atop the new normal of Texas country for all to see. As we await their latest record and subsequent tour mounts, it’s comforting to know these finger-picking wanderers still need to be done with us. In many senses, it feels like they’re just getting started.
8.5
I Can’t – Reba McEntire by Creed Miller
Just a week after Randy Travis released his new song, country music fans were treated to a new cut from another legend: Reba McEntire’s latest single “I Can’t.” Often, when older artists release new music, it doesn’t quite hit the way their older music did. That was different for Reba, as she proved she still had some of the best vocals in the game. Written by Victoria Banks, Tania Hancheroff, and Tia Sillers, the track resonates with empowerment as our central character focuses on living her life to the fullest rather than being someone else’s pillar. Thanks to Dave Cobb’s expertise as the producer, the track’s dusty, western vibe is undeniably impressive, showcasing musical craftsmanship that takes “I Can’t” to the next level. Perhaps the best part is the church choir used throughout, creating an inviting atmosphere for listeners to find their inner strength together. The pace and band participation also pick up in the second verse, and a nifty guitar solo before the final chorus brings the song to an electrifying end. Reba has always been one of the best vocalists that country music has ever seen, and at 69 years old, that certainly still holds.
9.3
Beautiful As You – Thomas Rhett by Cam Greene
What can be said about Thomas Rhett that has been said a million times by now? He’s nothing special, but with a great team around him, he can create groovy country hits soaked in a bath full of pop production. This newest track, “Beautiful As You,” is one of those songs. If you’ve heard any of his singles, you’ve pretty much already heard this one, and disappointingly enough, that’s been the general trajectory of his career. Most TR tunes follow the same formula, showing a girl with adoration because there’s no one else like her in the world. It’s a tried and true method of musicology for Rhett: make enough sappy love songs, and you’re bound to find radio success. That’s precisely how he’s maintained such a solid following, especially amongst the ladies. In a vacuum, “Beautiful As You” isn’t the worst single ever, but it’s very symbolic of TR’s biggest weakness: none of his stuff is terrible, but it’s also never really that good; it always finds that sweet spot right in the middle where empty calorie tracks like this one gain a lot of traction quickly before going the way of the dinosaurs and being forgotten forever.
4.0
Back Pew – Lily Rose by Christina Bosch
Spirituality and religion have always been part of the bedrock of country music, but as such a common trope, it can often feel disingenuous. However, Lily Rose’s honesty on “Back Pew” feels anything but. In this single, she stands at a crossroads in her relationship with God and the church, seeking the grace and peace usually attained in a moment of confession and clarity. Written by Lily with Emily Weisband, Andy Albert, and Paul DiGiovanni, “Back Pew’s” humble lyrics share the story of a sinner trying to make amends and ask for forgiveness. With tracks like Jelly Roll’s “Save Me” capturing recent critical acclaim, it does seem that there’s a demand for religious songs, and the concept that you will always have a place, even if it’s the last row of a church. The powerful choirlike chorus singing ‘Hallelujah’ adds some essential depth, transporting the listener through the heartache and uncomfortable admissions the way to hope and redemption. Her entire project, released this past weekend, shows songwriting maturity for Lily Rose, and looks to solidify her place in the genre.
8.4
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