Morgan Wallen, Smile | Song Review

Grammy-nominated country singer Morgan Wallen brings a change of pace with his single “Smile,” released at the tail-end of 2024.

Would it be far-fetched to describe some Morgan Wallen songs as predictable? No, it would not (no shade).  However, with “Smile”, Wallen showcases more unpredictability.  Sure, his East Tennessean country twang is firmly planted in this single, released at the tail-end of 2024, but it showcases a different sound, vibe, and sensibility. Wallen penned “Smile” alongside ERNEST, John Bryon, Rocky Block, and producer Charlie Handsome.  There is still ‘country,’ but it ain’t your father’s country music.  There is some pop influence.

“I can’t remember the last time / You looked as happy as you did tonight,” Wallen sings in the first verse, adding, “Your tipsy friend grabbed that bartender / Gave him her phone and pulled us over there with her.” Well, Wallen’s alcohol reference isn’t surprising.  That said, long before substance gets a nod, “Smile” commences with warm ‘ooh-ing’ vocals.  The backdrop, likewise, is warm and percussion-less.  Throughout the song, the drums are absent, and that is perfectly fine – no shade! The beauty and richness of the musical accompaniment are sufficient, while Wallen paints gorgeously with his nuanced vocals.  Wallen’s voice has always been a strong suit, and that’s no exception here.  A slight difference he brings to the table is that he dips into his falsetto.  The verses are sweet, including the first verse excerpted above.  That said, the section to beat is the chorus:

“It was good to see you smile

Girl, you know it’s been a while

It was good to see you smile

Even if it was just for the picture.”

If you’ve heard no other lyrics from the song, the chorus perfectly summarizes what goes down in “Smile.” “Silly me, thinkin’ we could make it work,” Wallen sings in the second verse.   Even though the relationship doesn’t work out for the country singer, “Smile” does. Wallen benefits from the different vibe and sound.  Sure, the adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” applies to his big-time success, but a change of pace is also welcome. 

Morgan Wallen // “Smile” // Big Loud / Mercury / Republic // 12.31.24

[: Big Loud / Mercury / Republic]