Releasing a debut single is always a scary step in one’s career. Will it get airplay? Will it be praised or critiqued? Did I choose the right song for a proper first impression? These are some of the questions that were sure to be running around Tucker Beathard’s mind when he decided to release “Rock On” as his introduction to country radio. And it seems like he made a good choice.
Being the son of songwriting genius Casey Beathard, who has written hit songs for Eric Church, Gary Allan, Trace Adkins and others, Tucker has songwriting in his DNA and “Rock On” showcases his talent quite well. The song, which he co-wrote with his father and Marla Cannon-Goodman, is told from the point of view of a guy whose ex decided to leave him in search of becoming famous, and while doing so, changed her true self. He wishes her well, and admits to moments of wanting the real her back, not this new glammed-up version. It’s a fairly straightforward story, however the two words of the title are also a clever little play on words that brings an important aspect to the song during the chorus:
Rock on like you don’t miss me
Rock on like it’s all good
Rock on till you forget me
Just like you said you would
I gotta tell you I can’t stand
The thought of someone else holding that hand
I should have put a rock on
It is at that point that the listener discovers his true feelings. That no matter how she’s changed, how much he’s telling her to go out and achieve everything in her new life, he wishes that she didn’t leave, and that she was his forever.
The overall feel of “Rock On” fits right in with what is on the radio today, making it a safe decision for his debut. Heavy with electric guitar and drums, it comes across as produced at times (with slight auto tune / echo for effect in parts) and the composition of the chorus is reminiscent of Florida Georgia Line.
“Rock On” can currently be heard on country radio and is available on all outlets.