Bradley Gaskin has returned to the country music scene with a full-throttle release, “Accidentally Drunk,” marking a shift back to traditional country after more than a decade away. For fans of classic honky-tonk, this track is a welcome reminder of Gaskin’s roots in George Jones-inspired balladry, which helped him rise to fame with the hit “Mr. Bartender” in 2010. After industry changes left his sound out of vogue, Gaskin took a break, working various jobs in Alabama. Now, backed by longtime friend Jack Cole’s label, 30A Life Records, and producer Keith Stegall, Gaskin has returned to music on his terms.
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“Accidentally Drunk” is crafted to please the purists. Co-written with songwriters Ashley McBryde, Justin Ebach, and Dan Smalley, the single dives into themes of heartbreak and sorrow, reminiscent of country legends like Keith Whitley. “We’ve all had someone we couldn’t get over,” Gaskin explains, reflecting on the pain of loss and the impulse to seek solace in a bottle. The lyrics are rooted in a familiar story: a heartbroken man struggling to drink away his memories, only to realize the pain remains. Gaskin delivers the tale with raw emotion, tapping into feelings that are universal yet seldom verbalized in mainstream country’s current landscape.
Musically, Stegall’s production emphasizes traditional elements—crying steel guitar, a steady shuffle, and Gaskin’s seasoned vocals, adding depth to the track. The song captures the pain of heartbreak in a way that feels real and lived-in, something Gaskin himself acknowledges comes from personal experience. His vocal delivery, grounded by years of ups and downs, brings an authenticity to the song that’s rare to find.
While “Accidentally Drunk” has been well-received, its throwback style might not appeal to fans of more modern, pop-infused country. The single may come across as a bit too earnest or old-fashioned for listeners who lean toward upbeat, radio-friendly hits. Still, for those craving the roots of classic country, it’s a refreshing break from the norm.
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Since his “Mr. Bartender” days, Gaskin’s journey has taken him far from Nashville’s center stage, but “Accidentally Drunk” marks a powerful return to form. Cracking the Top 40 on the Music Row charts, the song shows there’s still a dedicated audience for traditionalist sounds. Gaskin is unapologetically embracing his love for country’s raw side rather than trying to conform to mainstream trends. “Keith understands who I am as an artist,” Gaskin says of his producer, and it’s clear the two share a commitment to authenticity that resonates in the music.
As Gaskin prepares to release his debut EP in 2024, fans can expect more of the honesty and grit that define his sound. Though his career hasn’t followed a straight path, his passion for traditional country remains undiminished. With plans to return to the Grand Ole Opry, Gaskin is not only bringing his music back to the spotlight but also affirming his place in the genre he loves. For those who appreciate genuine storytelling in country music, “Accidentally Drunk” is a promising preview of what’s to come.
Gwen Waggoner
