Rebecca Lynn Howard’s “Seventeen” Ignites Million-View Frenzy, Preceding Highly Anticipated “I’m Not Who You Think I Am” Album
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Rebecca Lynn Howard, the two-time GRAMMY and IBMA winner, a songwriter whose pen has graced the repertoires of country royalty, and an artist lauded by Billboard for possessing “one of country music’s most powerful voices,” has ignited a wave of excitement with the release of her single “Seventeen.” Released on February 28th, the song’s official music video swiftly surpassed one million views, a testament to its emotional resonance and Howard’s enduring appeal.
“Seventeen” serves as a captivating preview of Howard’s upcoming 11-track album, “I’m Not Who You Think I Am,” scheduled for release on May 2nd via Lee Brice’s Pump House Records imprint. The album, produced by Howard’s husband, Elisha Hoffman, and executive produced by Brice, represents a culmination of Howard’s seasoned artistry and a deeply personal exploration of her journey.
“When I wrote ‘Seventeen’ almost 20 years ago, I had no idea that I was penning a song for my future self,” Howard shares. “This song has just the right amount of longing and nostalgia to fill my heart to the brim. I’m instantly transported to my youth…a more innocent time, when my parents were annoyingly right all the time. It’s humbling to reflect on how far I’ve come and how many ups and downs I’ve survived along the way since then. They say you can’t go back, oh but I do, every time I sing this song.”
The album’s track listing reveals a collection of songs that delve into themes of reflection, resilience, and personal growth, showcasing Howard’s songwriting prowess and her ability to connect with listeners on a profound emotional level.
I’m Not Who You Think I Am Track Listing:
- How High (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Elisha Hoffman, Marti Frederiksen)
- Seventeen (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Rachel Thibodeau)
- Hoedown (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Elisha Hoffman, Nathan Chapman, Stephanie Chapman)
- Heart Still Does (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Elisha Hoffman, Jenee Fleenor)
- Strong (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Elisha Hoffman, Trey Smith, Jennifer Fiedler)
- I’m Not Who You Think I Am (Rebecca Lynn Howard, James LeBlanc)
- Flowerbed (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Elisha Hoffman, Rob Hatch)
- Holler (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Elisha Hoffman, Cliff Audretch)
- Good Place To Turn Around (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Jon Mabe, Jason Matthews)
- I Am My Mother (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Rachel Thibodeau, Carolyn Dawn Johnson, Jamie Floyd)
- Mess Down Here (Rebecca Lynn Howard, Elisha Hoffman, Rob Hatch, Lance Miller)
Rebecca Lynn Howard’s career is a testament to her enduring talent and her ability to evolve as an artist. With a background that includes collaborations with country royalty like Ronnie Dunn, Vince Gill, and Patty Loveless, as well as rock legends like Aerosmith’s Steven Tyler, Howard brings a wealth of experience and artistic depth to her new album.
“I’m Not Who You Think I Am” is not merely a collection of songs; it’s a reflection of Howard’s journey, shaped by world-touring experiences and the wisdom gleaned from working with some of the most iconic figures in music. The album shines brightly with the culmination of two decades worth of work, that has produced chart topping albums and singles. Howard’s ability to infuse her music with heartfelt emotion and Appalachian authenticity resonates deeply with listeners, creating a powerful and moving listening experience.
Ultimately, “I’m Not Who You Think I Am” is a testament to Rebecca Lynn Howard’s artistic integrity and her unwavering commitment to creating music that is both authentic and deeply personal. With “Seventeen” already captivating audiences, the anticipation for the full album release is reaching a fever pitch.