Meghan Patrick, the Canadian country music sensation, has joined a select group of artists known for their clever use of punctuation in song titles. Her debut single, “Golden Child,” deliberately omits a comma, creating a double entendre that’s central to the song’s message: “Everything that glitters ain’t golden, child.” This strategic omission isn’t just about wordplay; it underscores the overarching theme of her album, also titled “Golden Child.”
More Than a Missing Comma: A Deliberate Choice
Patrick’s decision to exclude the comma from her single title wasn’t arbitrary. It was a calculated move to emphasize the interconnectedness of her album. “The whole record is connected. It’s sequential, it’s meant to be listened to top to bottom, in order,” she explains. “This song kind of ties it all together.” The missing comma, therefore, serves as a subtle reminder that there’s more to the song, and the album, than meets the eye.
From Album Title to Title Track: The Birth of “Golden Child”
Interestingly, the album title came before the title track. It was during a writing session with Aaron Eshuis and Joey Hyde, after a whirlwind trip to the CMT Music Awards, that “Golden Child” was conceived. Eshuis, struck by the album title, suggested they write a song with the same name. The idea resonated, and “Golden Child” was born.
A Letter to Her Younger Self: The Inspiration Behind the Lyrics
Patrick envisioned the song as a heartfelt letter to her younger self, filled with hard-won wisdom and advice. “The thing about writing songs where you’re sort of trying to impart wisdom or give advice, in some ways, you don’t want to ever come across too preachy or too judgy,” Patrick reveals. “It’s more just ‘Hey, this is what I’ve learned. This is how it goes.’ ”
“Wear Your Diamonds on the Inside”: The Importance of Inner Strength
The song’s most poignant message lies in the line, “wear your diamonds on the inside.” Patrick explains, “The moral of the story is that a lot of things that I thought were the diamonds — the things that I was wanting and striving for within the industry, the people I thought I needed to hang out with, or the things I thought I needed to do — they weren’t that great.” This powerful metaphor emphasizes the importance of inner worth and character over external validation.
Crafting a Sound That Commands Attention: The Musical Arrangement
The song’s musical arrangement is as deliberate as its lyrics. Hyde, the co-writer, explains their approach: “From a music standpoint, we keep the hooks coming at you so it’s familiar and comfortable, but we don’t let you get off the edge of the cliff.” The result is a sound that is both catchy and compelling, urging the listener to really listen.
A Collaborative Effort: From Vocals to Fiddle
The creation of “Golden Child” was a true collaboration. Patrick’s powerful vocals take center stage, while Eshuis and Hyde laid down the instrumental foundation, incorporating elements of classic country with a contemporary edge. Jenee Fleenor, a renowned fiddle player, added the final touch, infusing the track with authentic country flavor.
Introducing Meghan Patrick to American Country Fans
With “Golden Child,” Meghan Patrick is poised to take the American country music scene by storm. Her unique blend of insightful lyrics, powerful vocals, and captivating melodies is sure to resonate with audiences. The song is a testament to the power of authenticity and inner strength, a message that transcends genres.
FAQs about Meghan Patrick and “Golden Child”
What inspired the song “Golden Child”? The song was inspired by Patrick’s desire to write a letter to her younger self, offering advice and reflecting on life lessons.
What is the meaning behind the line “wear your diamonds on the inside”? It emphasizes the importance of inner strength, character, and integrity over external validation and material possessions.
Why is the comma missing from the song title? The missing comma is intentional, highlighting the interconnectedness of the song to the album, both titled “Golden Child.”
What makes Meghan Patrick’s music unique? Patrick’s music blends classic country influences with a modern edge, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh. Her lyrics are often introspective and relatable, exploring themes of self-discovery, resilience, and the complexities of life.
Where can I listen to Meghan Patrick’s music? Her music is available on all major streaming platforms, including Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music.
This meticulously crafted song is more than just a catchy tune; it’s a statement, an anthem for anyone who has ever felt the pressure to chase external validation. With “Golden Child,” Meghan Patrick reminds us that true worth comes from within and that the most valuable diamonds are the ones we carry in our hearts.
