Jillian Cardarelli Tips Her Hat to Country Icons with Heartfelt “The Boys”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Jillian Cardarelli, a name steadily gaining recognition for its authentic country spirit, has released “The Boys,” a single that feels less like a calculated radio hit and more like a warm, late-night conversation with a fellow country music devotee. This isn’t about chasing trends; it’s a genuine and heartfelt nod to the giants who laid the genre’s foundation – the Willies, the Waylons, and the Hanks that Cardarelli affectionately refers to as “The Boys.”
The track immediately establishes its classic country roots, not through mimicry, but through a comfortable familiarity. There’s a richness in the instrumentation, a certain timeless quality that feels both familiar and fresh. Cardarelli’s vocal delivery is key here. It’s smooth and emotive, carrying a genuine affection for the subject matter. She doesn’t just sing about these legends; she sings to them, with a reverence that is palpable. It’s the kind of voice that settles in like a well-worn record, comforting and familiar.
Cardarelli’s own words perfectly encapsulate the spirit of the song. Her description of a perfect evening involving wine and the music of these iconic artists paints a vivid picture of a true fan. This isn’t a forced attempt to connect with a bygone era; it stems from a genuine love and appreciation. When she mentions her immediate connection to the song upon hearing it from Tina Parol, it underscores the authenticity that permeates the track. It feels like a song that was meant for her, a sentiment she carries with grace and conviction.
While “The Boys” is a clear homage, it’s not stuck in the past. Producer Daniel Dennis has managed to blend those rich, traditional influences with a contemporary sheen, making it accessible to a wider audience without sacrificing its core identity. It’s a delicate balance, and one that “The Boys” strikes effectively.
It’s interesting to note the diverse range of projects Cardarelli has been involved in recently, from television appearances on Farmer Wants a Wife and Love is Blind to hosting a Tunnel to Towers special. These ventures highlight her versatility and growing presence, yet “The Boys” firmly plants her feet in the country genre she clearly loves. Her ongoing performances of “If I Could Talk to Elvis” featuring Larry Strickland further cement her connection to country music’s enduring legacy.
For fans already familiar with Cardarelli’s previous work, such as the tender “Can’t Help Falling in Love” or the Vince Gill collaboration “I’ll Get Over You,” “The Boys” offers another facet of her artistry. It showcases her ability to not only deliver heartfelt ballads but also to pay tribute to the very fabric of country music with sincerity and charm. This isn’t a song designed to chase fleeting trends; it’s a heartfelt expression of appreciation for the artists who paved the way.
In a landscape where artists often strive to push boundaries and redefine genres, there’s something refreshing about a song that simply and genuinely celebrates the roots. Jillian Cardarelli’s “The Boys” is exactly that – a warm, inviting tune that feels like a tip of the hat to the legends, delivered with a genuine love for the music that shaped her. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of classic country and a testament to Cardarelli’s own authentic voice within the genre.
Photo Credit: Lily Cruse