Song Review: Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan's "Cowboys Cry Too"
Article by Keyla Torres
Photo from Kelsea Ballerini’s Instagram
Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan's latest collaboration, "Cowboys Cry Too," dives deep into the complexities of masculinity and emotional vulnerability, offering a poignant reflection on societal expectations and personal struggles. Released amid anticipation on June 28, this soulful duet blends Ballerini's heartfelt lyrics with Kahan's raw emotional delivery, set against a backdrop of drawing guitars and poignant fiddle melodies.
Musical Composition and Style
"Cowboys Cry Too" opens with a reflective tone, immediately drawing listeners in with its twangy instrumentation and the seamless harmonies of Ballerini and Kahan. The song's production, helmed by Alysa Vanderheym, provides a perfect canvas for their voices to shine, evoking a sense of intimacy and authenticity. The refrain, "I never knew cowboys cry too," encapsulates the central theme of breaking down stereotypes and embracing vulnerability.
Lyrics and Themes
The lyrics delve into personal narratives of tough exteriors masking deep emotional turmoil. Ballerini's verse paints a picture of resilience and inner strength, describing a man who hides his pain behind a stoic façade. Meanwhile, Kahan's verse explores the consequences of suppressing emotions, reflecting on the impact of familial upbringing and societal pressures on emotional expression.
The chorus serves as a powerful reminder that everyone, regardless of gender or societal expectations, experiences moments of vulnerability. It challenges the notion that vulnerability equates to weakness, celebrating instead the courage it takes to open up and confront inner struggles.
Importance in Today's Society
In a cultural landscape often dominated by rigid gender norms and expectations, "Cowboys Cry Too" emerges as a timely anthem. It challenges outdated stereotypes of masculinity that discourage emotional openness and reinforces the importance of authenticity and empathy in personal relationships.
Through their collaboration, Ballerini and Kahan offer listeners a glimpse into the internal battles many face, emphasizing the universality of human emotions. By sharing their own perspectives and experiences, they encourage listeners to embrace vulnerability and reject societal pressures to conform to unrealistic standards of strength.
"Cowboys Cry Too" not only showcases the musical chemistry between Kelsea Ballerini and Noah Kahan but also delivers a poignant message about the power of vulnerability and emotional authenticity. It's a song that resonates deeply in today's society, where discussions around mental health and emotional well-being are increasingly crucial. Through their heartfelt lyrics and soulful harmonies, Ballerini and Kahan invite us to reflect on our own struggles and remind us that true strength lies in embracing our true selves.
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