A friend is aghast at my ongoing affection for the music of Morgan Wallen. Not only have I not cancelled Wallen, I continue to listen to the controversial country star for pleasure.
My pal may not know I was raised on country music and that my life partner’s predilections mean I’ve always been familiar with current country radio fare. Another critical factor can’t be easily dismissed: I live in Kansas. I’m liable to hear Wallen every time I step outside.
Tucker Wetmore sounds a lot like Wallen throughout his new album What Not To. The best songs of both men concern the irresistible lure of alcohol and the heartbreak of the women they love. Given it’s the soundtrack of my life, I’m willing to forgive the incessant sonic and lyrical clichés.
I’m the Problem, Morgan Wallen’s fourth album, will be released next month. If it’s as solid as What Not To, it’s going to be a country-themed summer on my Kansas homestead. My friend is always welcome, but he’ll never talk to me again if he catches me singing along with "It Takes One to Break One".