Brandon Wisham’s “Growin’ Up”: A Timeless Reflection on the Blink of an Eye
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In the ever-expanding universe of country music, new voices emerge with stories that feel both deeply personal and universally familiar. Brandon Wisham, a young artist from South Carolina, has quickly made a name for himself as one of these voices. His latest single, “Growin’ Up,” is a poignant and powerful reflection on the bewildering speed of youth and the bittersweet journey into adulthood. Written by Wisham alongside Jeb Gipson and Jake Rose, the song is a testament to the songwriter’s raw talent and his ability to capture complex emotions in a simple, honest melody.
A Look Back at a Whirlwind Journey
At just 22 years old, Wisham has already lived a life filled with dramatic turns. Raised in Williamston, South Carolina, as the youngest of seven children, he found his calling with a guitar at a young age. By 15, he was playing cover shows in local bars, honing his craft long before most people his age were even thinking about their future careers. However, it was a profound personal tragedy that sparked his songwriting journey. At 19, he wrote his first song, “Pain Won’t Last,” a moving tribute to his father, who passed away from COVID-19. This song, shared initially as a demo on TikTok, not only connected with listeners but also caught the attention of country star Bailey Zimmerman.
The viral success of “Pain Won’t Last” was the catalyst for Wisham’s move to Nashville and his swift ascent in the industry. He landed a global publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music and The Core Entertainment and was soon out on the road. Wisham spent much of 2024 captivating sold-out crowds, first on Zimmerman’s “RELIGIOUSLY. THE TOUR.” and later with Josh Ross. He’s since continued to build momentum, recently joining Tyler Hubbard and Chase Matthew for select shows, further solidifying his place as a rising star.
The Heart of “Growin’ Up”
With “Growin’ Up,” Wisham takes a moment to pause and reflect on this whirlwind journey. The song is an emotional snapshot of a young man grappling with the reality of time passing far too quickly. As Wisham himself shares, the song is not just about getting older but about “discovering who you are, embracing change, and holding onto the lessons that shape your heart.” This sentiment is the core of the single’s appeal. It’s a relatable feeling for anyone who has looked in the rearview mirror of their life and wondered where the time went.
The production, helmed by Brandon Hood, strikes a perfect balance. It’s polished enough to feel contemporary, yet it retains a raw, acoustic authenticity that lets Wisham’s soulful vocals shine. His voice, with its unfiltered humanity and fiercely hopeful spirit, is the true star of the show. It’s the kind of voice that can tell a story without needing a single word, conveying a depth of emotion that belies his young age.
A Powerful New Voice
Brandon Wisham is more than just a talented singer; he’s a natural storyteller. His music, particularly on “Growin’ Up,” feels both nostalgic and forward-looking. He has a unique gift for turning personal experience into universal truth, a quality that will undoubtedly resonate with a broad audience. As he continues to write and release new music, it’s clear that Wisham is not just a passing trend but a powerful new voice in country music with a bright and promising future. For anyone who has ever felt like time is slipping through their fingers, “Growin’ Up” is a song that will hit close to home, offering a moment of shared reflection and a reminder to cherish every step of the journey.