TRACK45 - When I Grow Up - Stoney Creek Records

It is with a heavy heart and a subdued tone that I share my thoughts of Meridian, MS trio Track45’s latest single, “When I Grow Up.”  And while this differs from the typical format about which I present my thoughts on a new release, this song deserves the attention outside the norm of others. 

Tiffanie DeBartolo, a talented author located outside Youngstown, OH, states the following in her book, How To Kill a Rock Star:

“No one commits suicide because they want to die.  Then why do they do it?  Because they want to stop the pain.”

We have all been affected by mental illness in one way or another.  Whether directly or indirectly impacted, everyone has come to understand just how serious depression can be, and the detrimental consequences that are possible if left unreported and/or untreated.  And while this incredibly talented group of three gifted musicians has continued to build an increasingly impressive catalogue, KK, Jenna, and Ben have broken new ground with their latest effort.

In honor of suicide prevention month, TRACK45 has released one of their most vulnerable songs to date.  “When I Grow Up” is out and available to us all via Stoney Creek Records.

A slow, acoustic intro immediately sets the somber mood of the track, setting the table for KK Johnson’s storytelling to tell the tragic tale that is all too familiar for so many of us.  Her beautifully elegant delivery perfectly articulates the vulnerability and grief behind the words she’s singing throughout the first verse, before inviting the backing vocals from Jenna and Ben.  The harmonies are immaculate, while the undertone remains consistently committed to the distressing vibe of the track.

While the first verse alludes to the situation through wordplay and metaphors, the second verse offers a more literal approach to the subject.

“That’s when you said to me

That your world gets so heavy

That you think about it ending

So tired of pretending”

Then, as the verse progresses, feelings of guilt come to the forefront, as is so often the case for those of us who are left behind to grieve the ones we have lost.

“Should’ve told someone right then

Should’ve gone to one of our friends

If I’d really listened

Would I still be missin’ you?”

The musical progression slowly but steadily escalates throughout this track, climaxing as the bridge collapses into the final chorus.  The passion and emotion behind the words sung and the notes played weighs heavy on the hearts of the listeners as we are taken through the turbulence of this tragic story that is so personal to so many.

This is a difficult song to listen to, because it is personal and relatable to so many.  And yet, bringing this type of awareness to the forefront of our minds is exactly how we can progress towards preventing more tragedies like the one depicted in this song.  It’s a courageous effort by a talented group, proving truly how much music can make an impact on the lives of those who hear it.

Track45 released their six-track EP ‘Grew Up On’ July 14, 2023 via BBR Music Group / Stoney Creek Records.  Produced by the talented trio, the set includes some of the top songwriters in Music City, including Michael Hardy, Ashley Gorley, Jonathan Singleton, and Taylor Phillips, among others.  From the singles “Last Man In Tennessee” and “Hate Me” along with the fan favorite “Drinkin’ And Thinkin’,” each song has its unique method of showcasing the undeniable talent of this trio that is soon to be a household name in country music.

(Review Written By: Chad Carlson)

• Prev
• Next