Megan Burtt's "Drugstore Brand," a standout track from her eagerly awaited album "Witness," is a masterclass in raw, unvarnished honesty. Conceived on a sultry New York night, the song captures the frenetic energy and feverish creativity that permeated the city that never sleeps. On that sweltering evening, Burtt channeled the chaotic allure of New York into not one but two songs, including the album track "Other Woman," marking a pivotal moment in her artistic journey.
"It’s hot as hell in New York tonight…” Burtt sings, encapsulating the city's exhilarating and exhausting nature. The sleepless streets and endless possibilities of New York served as both muse and crucible, forging songs that resonate with reflective depth and poignant authenticity. "Drugstore Brand" delves into the intricate dance between self-worth and societal expectations, offering a sharp lyrical exploration of ambition versus contentment. The song's core grapples with the internal dialogue that questions the value of our achievements and the relentless pursuit of something deemed 'special,' challenging listeners to find merit in a life free from perpetual ladder-climbing.
The song's inception is as captivating as its message. During a serendipitous session in Nashville, Burtt and her friend, the illustrious Anthony Da Costa, shared new material, leading to Da Costa's impromptu guitar riff becoming the heartbeat of "Drugstore Brand." Burtt’s quick-thinking to record the session on her voice memos preserved a moment of pure, unfiltered creativity, embedding it into the very fabric of the track.
"Drugstore Brand" is a testament to Burtt's evolution as an artist and storyteller. Known for her compelling melodies and evocative lyrics, Burtt has already garnered accolades, including winning the prestigious Kerrville NewFolk Competition and captivating audiences with the all-redhead roots band Gingerbomb. However, the journey to "Witness" was long and fraught with challenges. Delays due to illness and false starts only deepened her resolve to create music that is both deeply personal and universally resonant.
The turning point in her songwriting came when Burtt decided to embrace unflinching honesty. "I discovered that’s a side of myself I like as a songwriter," she reveals. "It’s become a sensibility that I know how to rest in." This newfound authenticity permeates "Witness," with songs like "Drugstore Brand" tackling weighty topics with unfailing vulnerability.
"Drugstore Brand" is more than a song; it's an intimate narrative that invites listeners to ponder the value of their own lives amid societal pressures. Megan Burtt's voice, rich with emotion and sincerity, delivers a powerful message wrapped in an unforgettable melody. As she returns with "Witness," Burtt reaffirms her place as a compelling voice in contemporary music, an artist unafraid to bare her soul and challenge her audience to look deeper within themselves.
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