Houston Merrill’s “Dear Megan”: A Playful Country Ribbing
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Houston Merrill’s debut single, “Dear Megan,” introduces a fresh voice to the country music landscape with a playful and unexpected twist. Released across download and streaming platforms, the song offers a light-hearted “response” to Megan Moroney’s “Man on the Moon,” and while the setup might suggest a brewing rivalry, Merrill insists it’s all in good fun.
The song’s origin story, as Merrill tells it, is almost as intriguing as the track itself. During a late-night studio session in Los Angeles with producer Jeff Blue and writer/producer Jacob Bunton, inspiration was running dry. A casual discussion about the lack of “beef tracks” in country music, sparked by gossip about Kendrick Lamar and Drake, led to the spontaneous creation of “Dear Megan.” This behind-the-scenes anecdote adds a layer of intrigue to the song, highlighting its off-the-cuff nature.
“Dear Megan” takes Moroney’s clever concept of sending a problematic ex to the moon and offers a fictional “Houston’s” perspective. Merrill’s approach is less about anger and more about playful banter, a refreshing take in a genre that sometimes leans heavily on heartbreak and drama. The result is a catchy, sing-along tune with an undeniably infectious melody.
Merrill’s sound, while rooted in country, incorporates elements of rock, pop, bluegrass, and even R&B. This blend creates a high-energy, modern country sound with what’s described as a “unique Midwest scuff.” His charismatic delivery and vulnerable lyrics suggest an artist with a distinct personal stamp.
The involvement of industry veterans Jeff Blue and Jacob Bunton adds further credibility to the project. Blue, with a career spanning three decades and pivotal roles in the careers of numerous major artists, recognized Merrill’s raw talent and potential. He describes Merrill’s energy and presence as “contagious” and his talent as “unmistakable.” Bunton, known for his work with a wide range of artists, from Billy Idol to Mariah Carey, brings a diverse and experienced perspective to the production. Blue’s decision to bring Bunton on board speaks to his vision for Merrill as an artist who transcends the ordinary boundaries of country music.
The accompanying YouTube video for “Dear Megan,” created by Merrill’s fans and friends using their own cell phone videos, adds a grassroots, personal touch to the release. It underscores the connection Merrill has with his fanbase and the collaborative nature of this early stage in his career.
Houston Merrill’s background as a former model, with a journey that took him from global fashion runways to the songwriting rooms of Nashville and Los Angeles, is indeed unconventional. As Merrill says, “They say you have your whole life to write your first record, and 12 months to write your second. I don’t know about the second one, but I can damn sure tell you that I’ve been writing this record my whole life.” This debut release is positioned as the culmination of a life’s worth of experiences, and it shows in the depth and relatability of his lyrics. “Dear Megan” is not just a debut single; it’s an introduction to an artist with a unique story and a sound that could carve out a distinctive place in contemporary country music.