Tanner Usrey, a rising star of alt-country, shared a deep, intimate single last month. “Who I Am” has all you need to know about Usrey, but not necessarily in the literal lyrics. While honest, they only go so far until the subtext found in Usrey’s tone of voice and instrumental trajectory shed light on what he is really trying to get at in this track. “Who I Am” is the latest in a series of new releases from Usrey, following “Last Goodbye” and “Give it Some Time.” Produced by Beau Bedford and out via Atlantic Records, you won’t want to miss this moment of spirit and perspective.
From the very first notes, the melody of “Who I Am” is comforting, warm, and inviting into Usrey’s inner world. His vocals are thick as molasses, communicating an unapologetic poem straight from the heart. The drums keep it light and driven, but the swinging acoustic slows encourages the track to take its time. After each lovely chorus, the instrumentals halt to shine light on a moment of Usrey’s perspective: “self destruction at its best.” Usrey is not afraid to sing about the hard stuff, alluring listeners to cope and feel through it alongside him. An organ-like keyboard behind the chorus instrumentals opens up a choral element, the perfect cherry on top of this open-armed tune.
“Who I am is an anthem to anyone who has felt trapped in a cycle of self-destruction. Living on the run, never being able to slow down, and being seen as someone else by people around you. I know a lot of people can relate to that message and this song is for them.”
Tanner Usrey
Usrey’s new single follows his monumental debut performance at the Grand Ole Opry, stunning crowds with his unwalled candor. Coming up, he has an exciting live schedule on the roster, snatching multiple headline shows. He will be frequenting festivals this fall and playing as the opening act for Shane Smith & The Saints and Paul Cauthen. After playing almost 180 shows in 2022, be sure to witness his storytelling moxy and stage eloquence by looking for tour dates in a city near you this fall!
Check out “Who I Am” below and be sure to give Tanner Usrey a follow!
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