“Holler”: Rebecca Lynn Howard’s Appalachian Anthem Rings with Soulful Resilience
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Rebecca Lynn Howard, a name synonymous with both songwriting prowess for country music titans and a vocal instrument capable of shaking rafters, returns with “Holler,” a vibrant and deeply personal offering from her forthcoming album, I’m Not Who You Think I Am. This isn’t just another single; it’s a statement, a roots-infused anthem that pulses with the spirit of her Appalachian upbringing and the undeniable power of her voice. Shedding any semblance of a manufactured press release, “Holler” feels like an authentic invitation into Howard’s world, a testament to her enduring artistry.
The track immediately distinguishes itself with a bold and rhythmic foundation. It’s a beat that compels you to move, possessing a certain earthiness that feels both contemporary and timeless. Then comes Howard’s voice, instantly recognizable for its rich texture and commanding presence. It’s not just powerful; it’s imbued with a knowing quality, an attitude that speaks of resilience and a life lived with intention. She doesn’t just sing the lyrics; she inhabits them, delivering each line with a conviction that is utterly captivating.
What elevates “Holler” beyond a simple country banger is the deeply personal layer woven into its fabric. The inclusion of Howard’s maternal grandmother, Attie Mae Mann, singing an old-time gospel tune at the song’s opening is a stroke of brilliance. It’s more than just a sample; it’s a direct connection to her heritage, a poignant tribute that grounds the entire track in a rich familial history. This isn’t just a song about growing up in the Appalachian Mountains; it feels like it, imbued with the echoes of generations past.
Howard’s own words about the song resonate deeply. Her description of cherished memories and the shaping influence of family, faith, and fun in her Kentucky upbringing isn’t just narrative; it’s palpable in the music. You can almost picture the landscapes she describes, the close-knit community, and the unwavering spirit that defines the region. “Holler” isn’t just a title; it’s an evocation of that spirited call, a joyful noise rooted in tradition yet delivered with a contemporary edge.
Produced by her husband, Elisha Hoffman, and executive produced by Lee Brice, the track benefits from a sonic landscape that is both polished and organic. Hoffman’s production expertly balances the driving rhythm with nuanced instrumentation, allowing Howard’s vocal prowess to shine while creating a sound that feels both modern and rooted. The promise of I’m Not Who You Think I Am seamlessly blending country, roots, and soul feels entirely believable based on the strength of “Holler.” This isn’t an artist resting on past laurels; it’s a seasoned musician exploring the depths of her artistry with a renewed sense of purpose.
Coming off the success of “Seventeen” and a wave of touring, Howard seems poised for a significant chapter in her career. Her statement about influencing people to love themselves and others through her music speaks to a deeper intention beyond mere entertainment. “Holler” isn’t just a catchy tune; it’s a testament to self-acceptance and the enduring power of one’s roots. It’s a vibrant, soulful, and ultimately uplifting track that leaves you eager to hear the full tapestry of I’m Not Who You Think I Am. This isn’t just a comeback; it feels like a powerful and authentic reintroduction to an artist who has so much more to say.