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Country singer/songwriter Hunter Hayes keeps it short and incredibly sweet on his second single released in August 2018, “One Shot.”

Last we heard from country singer/songwriter Hunter Hayes, he was questioning God’s decision making (“Dear God”). Not atheistically mind you, but, in a relatable fashion as many people of faith experience.  The Breaux Bridge, Louisiana-bred, baby-faced musician returned a couple of weeks later with another brief single, “One Shot.” Yup, Hayes is keeping things ‘short and sweet’ as of late.

“I started with one shot

To have a good time

Everybody knows how easy one can turn into five

Don’t judge me, ‘cause it ain’t nobody’s life but mine

And I only get one shot

So, I take it one shot at a time.”

On “One Shot,” it’s clear that Hunter Hayes is having a blast.  Musically, he blends new and old superbly, incorporating elements of pop, country, and even a hint of jazz.  The results are song that is fundamentally country that’s also extremely entertaining to listen to.  If “Dear God” had a fantastic message, but suffered a bit in the ‘execution department,’ “One Shot” feels like the ‘total package.’ Once more, Hayes references religion, as he admits to his many sins in tongue-in-cheek fashion on the first verse.  He segues into a second verse, self-censoring as he asserts, “Oh s***, there’s proof / Insta’s out there telling all my truth / I can’t lie so I own it / Been a rough week, so what? I deserve it.”  He sums things up with the aforementioned chorus, which plays on the words “shot” – alcohol, as well as a chance to get things right and in order.

Final Thoughts

All in all, Hunter Hayes comes on strong on “One Shot.” It’s fun, infectious, yet also conveys a solid message at the same time.  Hayes delivers all around – singing, songwriting, production, and with his charismatic personality.

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Hunter Hayes • One Shot – Single • Atlantic • Release: 8.24.18 

Photo Credits: Atlantic