In the wake of a painful breakup, John Morgan’s first radio single, ‘Friends Like That,’ offers a unique perspective on loneliness and self-reliance. Co-written with Will Bundy, Lydia Vaughan, and Brent Anderson, the song finds its protagonist seeking solace in the comforting embrace of vices and familiar voices.
At the heart of the song lies a contradictory state of being alone yet surrounded by friends. The writers ingeniously capture this duality through a series of conversations that unfold in front of a warm fire, where the singer confides in his musical idols (Willie Nelson and Waylon Jennings) and his trusted companion, Jack Daniel’s.
The song’s genesis can be traced back to a mysterious guitar riff that emerged during a writing session at Cornman Music in Nashville. This enigmatic melody became the foundation for the pre-chorus, setting the tone for the rest of the song. As the writers delved deeper into the creative process, the title ‘Friends Like That’ emerged, perfectly encapsulating the song’s central theme of finding solace in unexpected places.
The lyrics of ‘Friends Like That’ are a testament to the power of self-deception. The protagonist attempts to convince himself that he’s better off alone, dismissing his ex-lover with the dismissive refrain, ‘Who needs you when I got friends like that?’ However, beneath the surface of this bravado, a brooding outlook lingers, hinted at in the opening verse’s description of the ex’s keys left on the table—a poignant reminder of the relationship’s end.
The song’s bridge takes an unexpected turn, with the vices (music and alcohol) addressing the protagonist directly, reinforcing his self-sufficient stance. This moment of camaraderie provides a sense of catharsis, allowing the protagonist to momentarily escape his emotional turmoil.
Jason Aldean’s addition to the track brings an extra layer of authenticity and star power. His distinctive vocals blend seamlessly with Morgan’s, adding depth and emotional resonance to the song. Aldean’s subtle melodic changes, including the addition of blue notes, further enhance the song’s emotional impact.
‘Friends Like That’ is a testament to the power of collaboration and the transformative nature of music. Morgan, Bundy, Vaughan, and Anderson have crafted a song that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the pain of heartbreak. With its relatable lyrics, catchy melody, and poignant message, ‘Friends Like That’ is poised to become a country music anthem, offering solace and companionship to listeners navigating the complexities of love and loss.
