Former teen-pop heartthrob Aaron Carter, returns with an enjoyable new single, “Don’t Say Goodbye,” his first following his stint in rehab.

2017 has been an interesting, momentous year for Aaron Carter.  He was arrested for a drug-related charges, attended rehab, had a feud with his bro Nick, and came out as bisexual.  That’s a lot of stuff, and that’s just a couple of things that occurred in the 30-year old’s life.  Life happens to all of us. Prior to his generally ‘negative press,’ he released an EP, LøVë, which was enjoyable, but not ‘game changing.’  Nonetheless, the five-track effort signaled the direction Carter would likely aim for in the future. He makes his return with a new single, his first since the happenings of a tumultuous year, “Don’t Say Goodbye.” “Don’t Say Goodbye” has a similar sound to the songs that graced LøVë.  For the most part, that’s a pro.  This is another sleek, slickly produced record, with smooth, sound vocals courtesy of Carter. Vibe goes a long way with this particular offering, with its moodiness during the verses and the exuberance during the chorus and post-chorus sections.  That ‘post-chorus’ is essentially the dynamic build-up common in EDM and electro-pop.  It’s predictable, yet fitting given the direction Carter seems to approach as he essentially reinvents and reintroduces himself.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, in regards to his musical niche, Aaron Carter is definitely aiming in the right direction.  Electro-, urban-pop is ‘all the rage,’ and that style seems to fit his voice and sensibilities.  The main issue – as asserted earlier upon the release of LøVé – is carving space in the modern music industry. Can the former teen heartthrob muster up enough swagger and distinctiveness in the current climate?  He’s no longer the cute teen who sang and rapped at the start of the new millennium – he’s 30 and experienced life.  Still, the man Aaron Carter has lots boding in his favor – looks included.

Aaron Carter • Don’t Say Goodbye – Single • Sony Music • Release: 12.8.17 

Photo Credit: Sony Music