Nick Rich, Hot Mess | Beaming with Pride

In the 2^nd edition of Beaming with Pride ️‍ (2024), we highlight the song, “Hot Mess” performed by Nick Rich.

Prepare to beam with P-R-I-D-E ️‍! Beaming with Pride celebrates, embraces, and spotlights songs by LGBTQ musicians or allies.  In this column, we provide background and insight into the respective musician(s), as well as analyze + go gaga over the decadent bops being served up.  Furthermore, when the music dictates deeper, more transcendent discussion, we ensure the point is articulated to the fullest.  All styles of music are welcome while the songs can be classics or brand-spanking new. So, without further ado, in the 2^nd edition of Beaming with Pride ️‍ (2024), we highlight “Hot Mess” performed by Nick Rich.

“I’mma breathe in, breathe out / You think you got me all figured out (Breathe in, breathe out) / I don’t even know myself right now.” Hot mess! Nick Rich is not British. However, the talented musician makes British soul music which is hella cool. Not only does he make it, but he does so superbly. A prime example is his 2023 single, the must-hear “Hot Mess”. “I’m a hot mess / I think I love you / Until my ex / Finally comes through,” he sings, magnificently.  Furthermore, those lyrics he sings are ultra-relatable.  Perhaps you seek a new relationship, and BAM, your ex enters back into the picture, in some form or fashion, and things are messed up! Rich delivers many memorable lyrics, all of which capture being a hot mess: “I’d be so sad to let you go / But you can’t water something that won’t grow.” True!

Regarding “Hot Mess,” which, musically speaking, is anything but, Rich comments, “Some days I felt like a ‘hot mess’ and the woes of the relationship were my doing.” Word. Self-awareness is important.  Beyond the sus love experiences by Nick, and his stellar voice and songwriting, the music is sweet as well on this bop. Smartly, the minor key (C minor to be precise) captures the messiness.  The music, true to Rich’s self-characterization, emulates British soul, with its dusty, soulful groove, keys, smooth, rhythmic guitar, robust bass line, and playful, background vocals that accentuate the lead. Nick Rich may be a hot mess some days, but “Hot Mess” the song is electrifying!

Nick Rich • “Hot Mess” • Big Red • 2023

Nick Rich, Hot Mess: Beaming with Pride ️‍ No. 2 (2024) [: Brent Faulkner/ The Musical Hype; Big Red; Elias Souza, Los Muertos Crew from Pexels; CatsWithGlasses, Maicon Fonseca Zanco, Square Frog, Sudo from Pixabay]