Maren Morris – “Goodbye”

Why are older singers pushed out for teenagers? What meaningful message can a 17 year convey about love?

Ouch, that was kind of painful. It seems Texas has hatched another Miranda Lambert wannabe. I will admit I am always on the lookout for unique new artists who don’t sound like anyone else (ie Jypsi) or who sound like classic country artists (ie Amber Digby). Unfortunately Maren sounds like other nameless artists trying to tap into the Texas Music Scene vibe in a hip and informed way and I’m not buying. Texans often show rabid support for a large number of local artists I’d never give a second thought to, and Maren falls squarely into that category.

In this age bracket I’d say Katie Armiger has a lot more going for her than Maren. As far as artists in that neck of the woods Okemah Oklahoma native Shawna Russell is far more interesting musically than this gal. I’d rather pretend Kimberly Murray has just released either “I Can’t Remember” or “The Home You’re Tearing Down” as singles that instead represent some of the best country music Texas currently has to offer and should rightfully be proud of.

Karlie, I’m a traditional country loving curmudgeon and don’t much care for the pop-rock stuff that doesn’t sound like country music to me. I don’t mind an occasional melodic pop-country song, but I’m not too keen on rock influences in country.

There is just nothing about Maren’s song/sound/style that I find particularly interesting or unique. She sounds like a Texas version of Jaida Dreyer (who’s based in Nashville) and Jaida is far more unique and interesting. (Side Note: Jaida recently won a John Rich sponsored talent contest in Nashville.)

I am no fan of the edgy, roots rock oriented “Red Dirt” music scene in Texas, BUT Texas does foster the careers of traditionalists like Amber Digby, Kimberly Murray, Miss Leslie Sloan, The Hot Club of Cowtown, The Quebe Sisters, and neo-traditionalists like Sunny Sweeney that are among my favorite active artists. I’ll even take an innovative and eclectic gypsy jazz oriented group like Austin’s “The Belleville Outfit” over 95% of the boring stuff coming out of big label Nashville these days.

I don’t mean to pick on Maren personally, but it seems a lot of lackluster artists get media attention while true talents slip quietly through the cracks….

I can’t really add anything more to this other than KUDOS to those with the BALLS to tell it like it is. Only thing I will say is to especially agree with the “What can a 17-year old have to say” line.
You’re exactly right. SHE or HE hasn’t enough “life experience” ..She has NOT paid her “dues”

GO find a job waiting tables, study and LEARN the works of REAL songwriters, then try again, in say 5 years or so.