Everyone has their unique journey into music discovery. Some are always ahead of the curve, tuned into the latest hits, while others find comfort in revisiting sounds from past eras. Like many, my early musical tastes were heavily influenced by my parents, leading to gaps in my knowledge of certain artists and genres. This meant I’ve spent time catching up, often finding myself immersed in music that’s been around for a while. For instance, my recent deep dive into Eminem’s discography opened up a whole new appreciation for his lyrical genius, beyond just the familiar anthems.
Similarly, this past fall, I found myself on an unexpected Aerosmith binge. After revisiting their iconic rock anthems and stumbling upon an old Howard Stern interview featuring Steven Tyler, the band’s legendary frontman, I impulsively decided to explore Tyler’s 2016 solo country album, “We’re All Somebody from Somewhere.” Available on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, this album was a revelation. It proved to be a masterclass in raw emotion and genuine country storytelling, showcasing a different facet of Steven Tyler Songs.
To describe “We’re All Somebody from Somewhere” in a single word, “raw” comes to mind. Tyler’s distinctive voice, while not conventionally polished for country, is perfectly suited to the genre and the narratives he crafts within these songs. There’s an outlaw spirit that permeates the album, making it feel deeply authentic and heartfelt, entirely devoid of any manufactured pop-country sheen. While some might initially dismiss a rock icon venturing into country, Tyler doesn’t just pull it off – he excels, delivering a performance that is both convincing and captivating.
The emotional core of the album truly shines in tracks 11 through 14. “Red, White, and You,” track 11, leans slightly towards a more mainstream country sound, perhaps less dive bar and more radio-friendly. However, it retains the album’s overall character with its infectious melody and relatable themes of Americana.
“What Am I Doin’ Right” offers a clever twist on country music tropes. Instead of the typical country lament of a man questioning his mistakes in a relationship, Tyler flips the script, singing about wanting to understand what he’s doing right to keep his love interest happy. This playful reversal, combined with an upbeat tempo, makes it an instantly engaging track that encourages listeners to belt out the chorus along with Tyler.
“Janie’s Got a Gun,” the penultimate track, embraces the outlaw vibe most intensely. Here, Tyler truly unleashes his signature gravelly vocals, creating a soundscape that evokes images of the Wild West and early 20th century South Dakota. While the song begins with a more subdued feel, it gradually builds into a powerful and immersive tune that transports you to another time and place.
This genre blend might not resonate with everyone, but for those who appreciate the blues-infused country soul of artists like Chris Stapleton, “We’re All Somebody From Somewhere” is an essential listen. It’s the perfect soundtrack for a sunny drive, offering a chance to experience Steven Tyler songs in a completely new and surprisingly compelling light.
