Singer-songwriter Amanda McCarthy, who has a new EP and second album coming down the pipeline, releases her new single, “Every Bar Downtown,” a song about cruising bars and clubs at night, looking for the wrong person for the wrong reasons.
McCarthy explains, “The song’s inspiration hit me while wandering the streets of Nashville. I found myself peeking into every bar, secretly hoping to see one specific person, even though I knew I shouldn’t be looking for them at all. It’s about searching for someone you know is wrong for you, and I think that’s a feeling so many people can relate to.”
Talking about the unique feel and sound of the song, a collaboration with producer Kristian Veech, McCarthy says, “I wanted the song to capture the heart of Nashville but still have that rock/pop element that’s true to my style.”
McCarthy’s backstory is distinct from most artists: she dropped out of college, became a parent before the age of 21, and moved to Nashville during the pandemic. Rather than surrendering her heart’s desire, she pursued her dream. She began writing music and performing everywhere and anywhere, followed by sharing the stage with Hunter Hayes, Train, and Natasha Bedingfield.
She’s played for NASCAR, had her songs reach the first-round Grammy Nomination Ballot, and continues to write for herself and other artists
“Every Bar Downtown” opens on echoing, dark percussion rolling into a poignant, undulating melody as McCarthy’s nuanced, drawling vocals imbue the lyrics with intense longing. On the chorus, delicious harmonies add shimmering, intricate complexity, a kind of radiant glow, as McCarthy lets her evocative voice loose.
It’s one of those strong female voices with plenty of tonal muscle. Yet it’s subtle, shaded by delicate timbres that express profound emotional touches, touches that melt the hearts of listeners.
With “Every Bar Downtown,” Amanda McCarthy parades not only her gift for songwriting, but also her supple, graceful voice.
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