Taylon Hope’s “Cold In Colorado”: A Young Voice Carves Out Heartbreak and Hope in Country’s Landscape
By Christian Lamitschka for Country Music News International Magazine
Taylon Hope, a name steadily gaining traction in the contemporary country music scene, has unveiled her latest single, “Cold In Colorado,” a poignant exploration of fractured love that hints at the burgeoning depth of her artistry. More than just a song, it’s an emotional tableau, painted with vivid lyrics and brought to life by evocative visuals, signaling a significant step forward for this promising young talent.
“Cold In Colorado” delves into the delicate space where a relationship unravels, yet the threads of possibility haven’t completely severed. Hope’s songwriting captures the bittersweet ache of loss, the lingering “what ifs” that haunt the aftermath of a breakup. It’s a narrative familiar to many, yet Hope imbues it with a fresh perspective, tinged with the raw vulnerability that often characterizes the most resonant country ballads.
The accompanying visuals for “Cold In Colorado” serve not merely as decoration, but as an integral part of the storytelling. The majestic, often stark, landscapes of Colorado’s mountains provide a powerful backdrop for the emotional turmoil depicted. Juxtaposed with intimate moments portraying the struggles within the relationship, the visuals amplify the song’s central themes of distance, both physical and emotional, and the enduring hope for reconciliation. This thoughtful integration of visual and auditory elements underscores Hope’s understanding of how to craft a truly immersive experience for her listeners.
Reflecting on the song’s journey, Hope shares, “It has been an amazing journey watching this song evolve from a simple idea into what I think is a very special song.” This sentiment speaks to the organic nature of her creative process, a connection to her music that resonates in the final product.
In her own words, Hope eloquently describes the genesis of “Cold In Colorado”: “I wrote alone one day during a special moment, just the piano and me. In this song, I aimed to capture the essence of heartbreak and longing while also painting vivid imagery that resonates with anyone who has experienced similar emotions. Creating this piece has been incredibly fulfilling, allowing me to channel my creativity and empathy into something meaningful. I am a storyteller and am very inspired by 90s country music, and I love to envision and see stories as I write and play music. Often, songs come to me as I play piano; this was a beautiful story that came to me as I wrote. I can’t wait for everyone to hear it and hope it resonates with listeners as much as it does with me.”
This insight into her process reveals a deep connection to the storytelling tradition of country music, particularly the evocative narratives that defined the genre’s golden era in the 1990s. Her reliance on the piano as a primary songwriting tool suggests a melodic foundation that underpins the emotional weight of her lyrics.
The production of “Cold In Colorado” boasts a seasoned team, helmed by the renowned Kent Wells. The track was engineered by Kam Lutchterhand, mixed by Kevin Willis, and digitally edited by Kyle Dickinson, all recorded at Kent Wells Productions in Nashville, TN. The impressive roster of session musicians includes Kent Wells himself on acoustic guitar, alongside Mark Hill on bass, Jerry McPherson on electric guitar, Tommy Hardin on drums, and Mike Rojas on piano and keys. This collaboration of experienced talent undoubtedly contributes to the polished and emotionally resonant sound of the single.
Hailing from the picturesque Blue Ridge Mountains of West Jefferson, NC, Taylon Hope now calls Nashville, TN, home. Her early immersion in music, beginning at the tender age of four, has clearly shaped her path. Recognition has come her way, including being named one of “20 to Watch in 2020” by Women of Country and earning praise as “Very promising” from MusicRow’s discerning critic, Robert K Oermann.
Hope’s musical influences paint a clear picture of her artistic compass, citing iconic figures like Dolly Parton, Vince Gill, Carrie Underwood, and Martina McBride. This blend of traditional and modern country influences informs her sound, allowing her to honor the genre’s rich history while forging her own contemporary identity. “Taylon loves traditional and modern Country Music and greatly appreciates all kinds of music,” her biography notes, emphasizing her open-minded approach within the country landscape. “Taylon Hope values her roots and believes in being who you are, and Country is who she is!”
Her journey has already included sharing stages with established artists such as Shenandoah, T. Graham Brown, Suzy Bogguss, and Adam Crabb, and recently opening for Ned LeDoux, son of the legendary Chris LeDoux. Nashville’s legendary venues, including the Bluebird Cafe, The Listening Room, the Schermerhorn Symphony Center, The Texas Troubadour Theatre, The Nashville Palace, John A’s, and Puckett’s, have all hosted her performances. Beyond Music City, she has graced the stage of The Lyric Theatre in Lexington, KY, and the esteemed MerleFest in Wilkesboro, NC. She also maintains a regular presence on WBTV Channel 3 in Charlotte, NC.
A testament to her growing recognition, Taylon Hope is a signed artist for Dolly Parton’s DreamMore Resort, where she performs annually. Her commitment extends beyond the stage, as evidenced by her ongoing performances at the Ronald McDonald House and her upcoming work with the children’s unit at St. Jude Hospital. This dedication to giving back through her music speaks to a depth of character that complements her artistic talent. Furthermore, her multiple appearances on WSM Radio, the historic home of The Grand Ole Opry, underscore her increasing prominence within the Nashville community.
With “Cold In Colorado,” Taylon Hope isn’t just releasing another song; she’s offering a glimpse into the emotional landscape she navigates as a songwriter and performer. It’s a track that resonates with a maturity beyond her years, hinting at a bright future for this young artist who is skillfully weaving tales of heartbreak and hope into the fabric of contemporary country music.
Photo Credit: Feiten Photography