Morgan Wallen has made a name for himself in the world of country music, but not without a fair share of controversy. His latest album, “One Thing at a Time,” is a reflection of his journey in the industry, showcasing both his musical talents and the challenges he’s faced along the way.
Wallen’s rise to fame was meteoric. With a distinctive voice and a knack for crafting catchy songs, he quickly became a darling of the country music scene. Hits like “Whiskey Glasses” and “Up Down” showcased his ability to blend traditional country themes with modern production, making him a relatable figure for a broad spectrum of listeners.
However, Wallen’s career took a significant hit in early 2021 when a video surfaced of him using a racial slur. This incident led to widespread backlash and resulted in him being dropped from various radio stations and awards shows. Despite the controversy, he managed to maintain a dedicated fan base, and “One Thing at a Time” was highly anticipated.
The album, with a staggering 36 tracks, presents a diverse range of songs, showcasing Wallen’s versatility as an artist. It’s important to note that the album does not follow a specific theme or concept. Instead, it feels like a collection of songs aimed at satisfying various tastes within the country music genre.
Several tracks on the album are standout moments. “Born with a Beer in My Hand” offers a personal and introspective look at Wallen’s life, with lyrics that explore generational patterns and struggles. “Devil Don’t Know” and “Don’t Think Jesus” delve into more traditional country sounds, featuring prominent steel guitar and heartfelt storytelling. These moments reveal Wallen’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level.
However, “One Thing at a Time” also has its fair share of misses. Some tracks, like “’98 Braves” and “Single Than She Was,” fall into clichéd territory, relying on overused country music themes. Others, such as “180 (Lifestyle),” veer into hip-hop and pop territory, departing from the traditional country sound.
The album’s production is a mixed bag. It incorporates elements like steel guitar and organic instrumentation, which give certain tracks a genuine country feel. Still, it often leans into more contemporary and electronic production, featuring elements like electronic drum beats and autotune, which may alienate some traditional country fans.
Ultimately, “One Thing at a Time” is a complex album that reflects the multifaceted nature of Morgan Wallen’s career. It’s a testament to his ability to create music that resonates with a wide audience, but it also highlights the challenges of maintaining artistic coherence across a sprawling tracklist.
The controversy surrounding Wallen will undoubtedly shape his legacy, and opinions on his music remain divided. Some listeners will appreciate the diversity of styles and emotions presented on this album, while others may see it as a missed opportunity for Wallen to fully explore his potential as a country artist.
In the end, “One Thing at a Time” solidifies Morgan Wallen’s position as a prominent figure in mainstream country music, but it also leaves room for continued discussion about the direction of his career and the evolving landscape of the genre.
