MORGAN WALLEN - 20 Cigarettes - Big Loud/Republic/Mercury Records

Morgan Wallen’s fourth studio album, I'm the Problem, features the evocative track “20 Cigarettes.” Written by Blake Pendergrass, Chase McGill, Josh Miller, and Chris LaCorte, and produced by Joey Moi, this song stands as a testament to Wallen’s storytelling prowess and ability to capture raw emotion within the framework of country music.

“20 Cigarettes” unfolds as a vivid night-long journey, using the motif of cigarettes to mark the passage of time and the intensification of a fleeting romantic encounter. The lyrics begin with the protagonist lighting a cigarette on a redwood deck on Demonbreun; a nod to Nashville's nightlife. As the narrative continues, each cigarette counts down moments of intimacy, anticipation, and eventual loss. Wallen’s delivery is conversational and honest, painting the scene with lines like “There was more than smoke in that summer air” and “She was saying my name, barely even knew it.” The song’s imagery brings listeners into the humid Tennessee night, where every drag of a cigarette is a memory burned into the protagonist’s mind.

Produced by Joey Moi, the track features Wallen’s signature blend of modern country with subtle rock and pop influences. The arrangement is intimate, with acoustic guitars and understated percussion supporting Wallen’s vocals. The laid-back tempo mirrors the lazy haze of the summer night described in the lyrics. Moi’s production choices allow the narrative to shine, creating space for Wallen’s voice to convey both vulnerability and bravado. The chorus is catchy but avoids bombast, giving the song a reflective tone that complements its storytelling.

At its core, “20 Cigarettes” is about connection, fleeting passion, and inevitable heartbreak. Wallen captures the bittersweet nature of such encounters; where excitement and regret intertwine. The cigarette count serves as a clever device, marking the journey from hopeful beginnings to the emptiness of the morning after. Lines like “Blew it in the sky, she was gone like that / One hell of a night, one hell of a pack” evoke a sense of loss and nostalgia that many listeners will find relatable.

“She was with her friends, left 'em standing there / There was more than smoke in that summer air.”

“She was saying my name, barely even knew it / We were both lying, said we never do this.”

“That lucky cigarette, laying on our backs / We were out of breath, we both took a drag / Blew it in the sky, she was gone like that.”

These lines showcase the songwriters' ability to turn everyday experiences into rich, evocative scenes; a hallmark of great country music.

“20 Cigarettes” exemplifies Morgan Wallen’s talent for crafting emotional, relatable narratives set to memorable melodies. With skillful songwriting and tasteful production, the track invites listeners to reminisce about their own late-night adventures and the delicate balance of joy and heartbreak. As part of I'm the Problem, it stands out as a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the moments that linger like smoke in the air.

(Review Written By: Dave Pierce)