Single Review: Gabby Barrett – I Hope – (feat. Charlie Puth)
by Fatima Alerou for Country Music News International
A Song Far from Heartbreak
Now, I’ve been single for three years, maybe longer. Naturally, a breakup song isn’t what I’m looking for when looking for new music. When I first heard of Gabby Barrett’s “I Hope,” it felt like a breakup song. I wondered what it could mean for me. The more I listened, however, the more empowering it felt. The strength in her voice and the strength of the lyrics was something different. At first, I heard the heartbreak. There was this want for this man that she wasn’t with, but eventually, that hope for him died. The rage and revenge set in, but it offered a sort of redemption for her. “I hope he cheats” became more about the man’s character. I realized that she wasn’t the issue, he was. She was ready to move on, because she knew she deserved better.
Though I immensely enjoyed the song, I was surprised by it. I often stray away from new hits, especially country songs. These past few years, these country songs and singles have felt very linear in perspective. There wasn’t a song that really did it for me. This song by Gabby Barrett, however, sets a new tone. Gabby has brought back the thrill that came from the Carrie Underwood days; the energy of “I hope” felt very reminiscing of “Before He Cheats” by Carrie Underwood. “I Hope” is far from a remake. It shows that it can stand on its own and have its own shine. She is not the next Carri Underwood, she is simply the first Gabby Barrett. The delivery and emotion by Gabby show me that this is her time to shine. You don’t name an album Goldmine for nothing. With that being said, I can’t wait to see what more Gabby has to offer in her next project.