Michael Babb Invites Us to Embrace the Art of “Doin’ Nothin'”
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Oklahoma’s own Michael Babb, a multifaceted talent with a deep-seated passion for music that dates back to his high school days, has released his latest single, “Doin’ Nothin'”. This track is more than just a song; it’s a delightful and much-needed reminder to step back from the incessant demands of modern life and savor the simple pleasure of idleness.
Babb is certainly no stranger to the international music scene, with several cuts reaching the Top 40 on Country and Western charts in Norway and France. His music has enjoyed airplay across Australia, Canada, Norway, and various parts of Europe. Yet, despite these notable musical accomplishments, Babb’s life has been far from solely dedicated to the arts. For over three decades, he has balanced his artistic pursuits with a demanding career as a family physician, practicing outpatient and inpatient medicine, obstetrics, and even surgery. This dual life undoubtedly offers a unique perspective, imbuing his songwriting with a blend of keen observation and a grounded understanding of the human condition.
His journey to Nashville, often facilitated by the Nashville Songwriters Association International and collaborations with local co-writers, speaks to his dedication to the craft. While drawing inspiration from timeless legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Dolly Parton, Babb also weaves in contemporary influences such as Ed Sheeran, Taylor Swift, and Lewis Capaldi. This eclectic blend hints at a songwriter unconstrained by genre, a characteristic he proudly embraces. Though his songwriting spans various styles, he admits a particular fondness for love songs, a soft spot he’s harbored since the tender age of 16. With his extensive prior stage experience and a renewed focus on his musical endeavors, Babb is poised to captivate listeners with his upcoming projects.
“Doin’ Nothin'” itself stems from a wonderfully relatable, humorous anecdote. Babb recalls the moment of inspiration: “Upon seeing a buddy sitting on a bench, I ask ‘Whatcha doin’?’ He replies ‘Nothin’.’ Next day, same buddy, same time, same bench. ‘Whatcha doin’?’ Reply again is ‘Nothin.’ I said ‘That was what you were doing yesterday,’ and the reply was ‘Yep, and I didn’t get finished.'” This charming exchange perfectly captures the essence of the song: a celebration of intentional relaxation and the quiet satisfaction of achieving absolutely nothing.
The track itself is infused with a playful tone and an easygoing rhythm that immediately puts the listener at ease. It serves as a refreshing auditory pause, urging us all to recharge from the relentless pace of daily life. Babb’s signature wit and wisdom, hallmarks of his genre-spanning songwriting and international success, are evident throughout “Doin’ Nothin'”. The song doesn’t preach; instead, it gently encourages us to reconsider our relationship with productivity and embrace the simple joy of unhurried moments.
With a renewed dedication to music and storytelling, Michael Babb, the longtime physician and seasoned songwriter, continues to forge connections with audiences around the world. This time, his message is clear and universally appealing: slow down, breathe, and relish the profound simplicity of doing nothing. “Doin’ Nothin'” is more than just a single; it’s an invitation to a much-needed mental break, delivered with characteristic charm and a healthy dose of wit. It’s a testament to Babb’s ability to find inspiration in the everyday and translate it into music that resonates deeply.