OneRepublic, Wanted | Track Review

Ryan Tedder and OneRepublic keeps it short and sweet on the love-longing “Wanted,” a single anticipated to appear on the pop collective’s fifth studio album. 

Six words: “I just want to be wanted.” It’s a simple message and takeaway but quite a retable statement made by Ryan Tedder on the chorus of “Wanted.” “Wanted” is a short but sweet single set to appear on 1R5, the fifth studio album by OneRepublic.  The pop collective has had its fair share of hits, with its biggest dating back to 2007 (“Apologize”). But no need to look at the past, let’s examine what’s before us at the present – “Wanted.”

Not even approaching two-and-a-half minutes, OneRepublic give us a respectable amount of song, as well as content, in a short duration.  On the first verse, Ryan Tedder sings as a woman who is sad, feels invisible, and most of all, unloved.  “She said, ‘I’m holdin’ on to the notion that I’ll find something real,’” he sings at the end of the first verse.  ‘She’ continues her depression on the second verse, yet at the same time, seems to be hopeful: “She said, ‘I’m countin’ up my karma and I think it’s time to cash it in / So tired of livin’ in a shadow of a mountain of what might’ve been.”  Of course, both verse lead to the chorus, led by those aforementioned six words.

“Wanted” is simple and straightforward, but quite effective in message and lyrics.  Furthermore, Ryan Tedder sings it well, especially those emotional runs. The production, unsurprisingly, is a selling point, co-produced by Tedder, Brent Kutzle, Tyler Spry, and Steve Wilmot.  We expect no less from a band who was propelled by a Timbaland co-produced joint.

Final Thoughts 

All in all, “Wanted” is a bop for OneRepublic.  It’s not surpassing “Apologize” mind you, but there’s lots to fancy about this brief number.  Again, it’s quite relatable, well-sung, and well-produced.  Even given its brevity, Ryan Tedder and company make their point crystal clear – there’s no need for any more song.

OneRepublic • Wanted [Single] • Interscope • Release: 9.6.19

Photo Credit: Interscope