Red-haired Georgia country singer Cole Swindell drops an enjoyable, well-rounded, mid-tempo ballad with “Somebody’s Been Drinkin’.”

Cole Swindell has slowly but surely built up his career in country music. The red-haired musician wrote songs for others before earning his own success as a lead artist.  Honestly, it’s hard not to like this dude, particularly with gems like “Hope You Get Lonely” and “You Should Be Here” in his catalogue.  Swindell adds another piece, his drunken single, “Somebody’s Been Drinkin’.”

“Somebody’s Been Drinkin’” begins relatively mysteriously, with little rhythmic or melodic motion.  Initially, it’s very spare, quiet, and simplistic. Following the mysterious intro, Cole Swindell enters the picture, beginning to set things in motion.

“First one came at 10:35

Hey what you doing?

11:15 – ‘Are you alright, did you finally get moved in…”

Gradually, there is more motion and more instrumentation. This is signaled by the lyric, “12:18…” What’s Swindell getting at? Ultimately, there’s romance in the mix, even if it’s fueled by a couple of drinks. By the chorus, Swindell lets loose, showcasing the full range of his beautiful, distinct pipes.  This guy wasn’t an overnight sensation? Unbelievable! The centerpiece is undoubtedly the catchy, memorable chorus:

“Somebody’s been drinkin’ and got to thinkin’ ‘bout us

It’s just the cherry bombs talkin’ when you’re hittin’ me up

I got a fire in the backyard, half of bottle of Goose

And a spot on my shoulder so baby come on over

Somebody else has been drinkin’ too.”

Naturally, the second verse is better developed than the first. Overall, the pacing is thoughtful and definitely feels right.  On the bridge, much like Jamie Foxx and T-Pain, Swindell has a plan to “blame it on the alcohol” – if they “cross the line” that is.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, Cole Swindell delivers an enjoyable, well-rounded performance on this mid-tempo ballad.  As always, his voice is the biggest selling point – he truly sounds distinct.  The premise and overall theme aren’t game changing, but “Somebody’s Been Drinkin’” is definitely worthwhile.

Cole Swindell • Somebody’s Been Drinkin’ – Single • Warner Music Nashville • Release: 4.13.18 

Photo Credit: Warner Music Nashville