In an period when major-label nation typically drifts into pop polish and thematic security, Maddye Trew’s “Single of the Yr” arrives like a breath of honky-tonk air—sharp, wry, and rooted in a deep understanding of nation music’s narrative traditions. Releasing Could 23 by way of TLG/Virgin/Trew Blue, the observe is a superb instance of how independent-minded artists are reclaiming emotional nuance and intelligent storytelling within the style.
From the primary line—“At this level a breakup could be catchin’ a break”—Trew crops her flag. This isn’t simply one other track about love misplaced. It’s in regards to the sluggish, awkward ache of not even getting far sufficient to expertise a breakup. It’s a rustic ballad that sidesteps melodrama and lands someplace extra difficult—and extra sincere. That rigidity between humor and heartache is the place nice nation lives.
The manufacturing from Grammy-winning engineer Steve Marcantonio is tastefully restrained however emotionally resonant. Electrical guitars swirl, a fiddle glints within the background, and the rhythm part retains issues transferring with an easy sway. It’s conventional sufficient to please purists however crisp sufficient for contemporary playlists. The mastering, courtesy of Adam Ayan, is radio-ready with out sacrificing heat—a tricky steadiness in 2025’s hyper-processed panorama.
Vocally, Trew delivers a compelling efficiency that hints at her Memphis roots and Belmont coaching. Her tone is full-bodied, clear, and conversational. She doesn’t oversing. As an alternative, she leans into the phrasing like a storyteller with nothing to show—simply one thing actual to say. It’s that understated management that pulls comparisons to Miranda Lambert’s early work and Ashley McBryde’s lyrical authenticity.
What units “Single of the Yr” aside within the crowded area of up-and-coming nation singles is its precision. Each phrase serves the narrative. Traces like “All my mates are tying the knot / And I’m over right here simply tying one on” don’t simply rhyme; they land like well-thrown darts. You may nearly hear the group cheering when it performs reside.
There’s additionally a wise branding technique at play right here. By naming the track “Single of the Yr,” Trew flirts with self-deprecating humor whereas additionally planting a tongue-in-cheek advertising flag. It’s the type of title that begs for playlist inclusion, editorial discover, and even awards-show commentary. That dual-layer of emotional content material and business savvy is one thing her crew would do effectively to lean into.
Because the lead single from her upcoming EP Right here Goes Nothin’, “Single of the Yr” builds well on the momentum of previous releases like “Lengthy Gone John” and “Expensive Loretta.” This time, although, there’s a readability of imaginative and prescient. Maddye Trew is aware of precisely who she is as an artist—and she or he’s prepared to verify Nashville is aware of it too.
A breakout second for a rising artist who performs the lengthy sport—and performs it effectively.
Mindy McCall
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