Jennifer Hanson - ‘73
Songwriters: Jennifer Hanson, Michael Heeney, and A.J. Masters
I don’t know that I’ve ever heard a song that captures the essence of a divorce from the child’s point of view as well as the latest single, “‘73,” from Jennifer Hanson. Hanson puts words to the quintessential question silently asked by children of divorced parents and she sings the song perfectly while flipping through the photographs of her life, wondering how different all of their lives would be if her parents were still in love like they were in ‘73.
Two different Christmas trees, a new half brother, the awkward teenage years with a single mother, and the three of them united again for a photograph at gradution–they’re the thoughtful reflections of a grown woman looking back upon the years, without a trace of contempt for either parent. It’s beautiful and poignant and very real all at the same time as Hanson points out in the chorus, “Everything changes / Hey, that’s reality.” A reality shared by far too many, but it makes for a great country song. Props to her label for having the huevos to release this as a single.
Listen: Jennifer Hanson - “‘73″
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[…] Hanson talks about the inspiration behind her song “‘73.” (Read The 9513 review.) My parents got divorced when I was six years old, but I found this picture of me, my mom and my […]
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February 13, 2008 at 3:43 pm Permalink
I’ve been pretty impressed with her songwriting and singing ability. She and Mark Nelser seem to be perfect for each other. Between the two of them, they have written or contributed to “Leave the Pieces”, “A Different World”, “Just to See You Smile”, and “I Miss My Friend”. I’m excited to see what is in store for their future.
By the way, Montgomery Gentry just released their next single, “Back When I Knew It All”, and their first song off their next album, due in June I believe. Interested to see your review on it.
February 16, 2008 at 6:50 pm Permalink
Just got hold of this. Wow, it’s really good!
February 29, 2008 at 12:49 am Permalink
I actualy heard Jennifer perform this live for the first time in front of her two parents. Her dad playing guitar and her mom in the audience. Jennifer really struggled not to cry during the song and it had half he audience in tears. It was and is a wonderful display of reality..! She is wonderful, and I really hope this song does well. It is nice to hear about real things in life, rather than some made up story to get some play time. This artist is great!!!
April 6, 2008 at 3:15 pm Permalink
I’m eagerly searching for up-to-date news of any new coountry music by Jennifer Hanson. I thought the CD titled Jennifer Hanson was one of the best I’ve ever heard and don’t uderstand why it didn’t soar in the charts.
I’m starting to hear snippets of songs that may be from a new album (Thankful w/ V. Gill), but I sure would love some confirmation of when it’ll be released…what the CD will be called…and most importantly, when I might be able to preorder it on Itunes. Thanks so much!! Bill
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