She's So California, He's So Gary Allan
I'm so not California. But, God, I wish I was. I wish I could be the girl Gary Allan is singing about in his new single, "She's So California." Everything he touches turns to musical gold, and this is no exception. But for the first time in a while, I feel like I can finally hear Allan smiling.
I mean, sure. He's singing about a girl who is a wildfire out of control and an earthquake. But he also describes her as a top-pulled-down on the 405, a summer breeze and a walk in the sand at sunset. So, it sounds like he digs her.
For so long, Allan has been immersed in subdued songs with very philosophical, very melancholy themes. With good reason. His life's been through some very rough spots, and I get that his music would reflect that. You don't get through hard days with easy songs. But I feel like this song is signaling the light at the end of the tunnel for Allan. His voice still sounds gritty, but it does this powerful swell toward the end of the song. The guitar work still gives the music a rocker's edge, but the pedal steel throughout does a lot to keep the song grounded in country. And lyrically, the story is a little more cliché than Allan fans may be used to, but coming from him, these words sound somehow more meaningful than if they were coming from a pop band.
That's why I want to be the a black Mercedes on the Laurel and Vine, the low cut dress and the Hollywood sign. I want to be worthy of Allan's sultry singing and cool songwriting. Especially now that it sounds like he's found a happier place.
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Betty says:
I totally agree…You can hear his smile and what a sexy smile he has….
txjo says:
I’m hoping this song will be a hit for Gary..he has been showcasing his writing on the last two discs. That is exciting for Gary allan fans! As a long time fan I am always glad to see a live show. always loving Gary allan in Texas~~~ JM
MiaT says:
I think this song will be a huge hit for him. Is there room in the car for me? LOL
Vicki says:
BTW, my son just moved into an apartment with a divorced guy whose girlfriend is a DJ on a popular local rock radio station. My son introduced us and I said, “I like rock but my main focus is country.” Well, she jumped up and said, “Mine too!” She said she saw a Loretta Lynn concert about 2 months ago and was rocked with how strong her voice still is. Then she said, There’s these two new guys that I like…one has a really low voice..uh..”Will you go with me..” I immediately said,” That’s Josh Turner”. She then said, “There’s this other song about watching airplanes.” I said, “That is Gary Allen and oh I love him.” I mentioned though that to really know Gary, you have get his last CD. That is Gary at his emotional best.
Gary Fan says:
Who cares how he sounds. Have you the little bit of belly showing on this album cover? I think he’s been working out, and it’s really working out.
CA says:
Does anyone else hear a little Rodney Crowell in this song?
DIANA says:
I love Gary’s new song she’s so Califoria i would very much like to see the video’
diana
Faye says:
Love this song and every other one HE has ever put out there. Just waiting for the new one to come out. “Today” and waiting for Sept to see HIM live once more, never get enough!!