Robert Ross’s “Better With Time” – A Resonant Anthem for Self-Acceptance
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
In an era saturated with curated perfection and the relentless pursuit of an elusive youth, Canadian-Australian singer-songwriter Robert Ross offers a refreshing counter-narrative with his latest single, “Better With Time.” This poignant track, the title song from his upcoming album, follows on the heels of his national radio chart-topper “Drink ‘Em Down,” and it’s poised to resonate deeply with anyone who’s ever felt the subtle, or not-so-subtle, sting of societal pressures regarding appearance and aging.
Ross, whose music is deeply rooted in traditional country and folk, has always been a storyteller, weaving narratives of life’s struggles and triumphs into his soulful melodies. “Better With Time” is no exception. It’s an emotional ode to embracing the natural progression of life and finding beauty in the very essence of who we are, rather than in fleeting, superficial ideals.
A Message That Matters
Ross himself articulates the song’s core philosophy with a compelling sincerity: “In a world that is so heavily focused on looks and perfection, real beauty, natural beauty, and the beauty of aging is often overlooked and forgotten. If people could see themselves through the eyes of those who love them unconditionally, they’d realize they are beautiful just the way they are. Real beauty comes with time.” This sentiment isn’t just a catchy lyric; it’s a vital message in a world increasingly grappling with body image issues and the anxieties of aging. “Better With Time” acts as a gentle, yet firm, reminder that true beauty transcends the fleeting aesthetics often glorified by modern culture.
From New Brunswick to Nashville: A Journey Forged in Resilience
Ross’s journey to this point is as compelling as his music. Born and raised in the small towns of New Brunswick, Canada, his early influences were the titans of country music: Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, Randy Travis, and Sawyer Brown. These legends clearly shaped his authentic, heartfelt storytelling style. Beyond his musical upbringing, Ross’s 11-year military service, including 3.5 years overseas, undoubtedly sharpened his understanding of resilience and the profound nature of human connection – themes that consistently permeate his songs.
After making the move to Australia in 2009 and becoming a citizen in 2014, Ross quickly carved out a niche for himself on both Australian and global indie charts. His debut album, “It’s Never Too Late,” was a testament to his burgeoning talent, producing multiple #1 hits and garnering award nominations.
A New Chapter with a Nashville Sound
The next significant step in Ross’s career unfolded in November 2023 when he relocated to Nashville, the heart of country music, to collaborate with Grammy award-winning producer Gil Grand on his second album. This partnership has clearly paid dividends, with “Better With Time” being a product of their shared creative vision. The track showcases Ross’s signature blend of soulful melodies and deeply felt lyrics, all underscored by Grand’s expert production.
With previous chart-topping singles like “Jack Daniels” and the aforementioned “Drink ‘Em Down” already under his belt, Ross is steadily cementing his position as a compelling and authentic voice in contemporary country music. “Better With Time” feels like a natural evolution of his artistry, offering not just a catchy tune, but a meaningful reflection that listeners can carry with them long after the song fades.
In a music landscape that often prioritizes trends over timelessness, Robert Ross is proving that some messages, much like real beauty, truly do get better with time.