The first country release from Darius Rucker, the former lead singer of popular ’90s pop-rock outfit Hootie & the Blowfish, recently reached the Top Ten on the Billboard singles chart. It’s the lead single of his forthcoming album Learn to Live and its popularity sends a clear message that country fans appear to be embracing Rucker in his attempt at a solo career.
And with good reason. “Don’t Think I Don’t Think About It” is led by the powerful pipes of Rucker and provides a very mature, adult response to regret and remorse than is often found in country music. Yes, he has made a number of mistakes due to foolish pride, but he is aware enough to realize that those choices cannot be undone. It’s a responsible approach to heartache, and helps the listener to better sympathize with his inner struggle.
The production may not be remarkable, and the lyric is not groundbreaking, but it’s a real, honest, down-to-earth story with a roots-deep vocal performance.
Grade: B+
I find the song, in general, to be bland. Rucker has a good frat boy voice, and I am grateful for a black male singer in country music, but once again a pop singer trying to break into country because his pop life is over and done. Country radio always betrays which music it really suports by helping to push this song as country.
As an aside, from a black male: I dislike the video becaue he sings to a background story with two white, blond-haired lovers. I have nothing against them but for a change in country music wouldn’t be great to see two people of color falling in and out of love in a video.
Craig,
I think the fact that Darius has crossed-over to country is different. He’s always wanted to do it and actually tried to make Hootie & The Blowfish a country band before they got popular. His love of the genre seems genuine and perhaps the production is just what he needed to ensure radio success.
I have to say that I really like the song and I hope Rucker sticks around in country for awhile. This is coming from somebody who spent most of the nineties hating Hootie and the Blowfish with a passion. No hard feelings, Ruck.
You know, I didn’t like HBF in the ’90s either. I thought his voice sounded like he’d gone into the studio with a few too many beers. I ended up liking their music in this decade though. I’m not really big on this song. I’m pulling for him, but I’m not convinced by this specific number. It’s boring, I guess and it’s not nearly as traditional as he claims his upcoming record to be in his interviews. So, here’s hoping for things to come.
I have to agree that it’s quite a boring song. I’ve taken to it a little bit more recently because the ending is slightly more exciting. However, I also agree that he has potential, and I am looking forward to seeing what else he has in store.
On a side note, I kind of hate the line that goes something “You found a good man and you married him.”
I was always hearing this song on my radio and was shocked when I found out who sings it!
And I gotta say, I really like it. I think it’s a pretty good song. Not great, but not bad either.
I am so blown away by this song. I loved it from the second i heard it. It even amazed me more when I found out who sang it. I think Darius made a good choice at crossing over.
Love this song!!!!! it apply’s to me sooo much it’s crazy!!!! It’s simple & striaght to the point!!!!
The first single of the album didn’t grab me at first. But after weeks of playing it on our station, it has grown on me. Solid first single. But you need to listen to the rest of this album. Some great radio friendly hits on there just waiting to be discovered. We welcome Darius into the country fold, because he has approached this album as the next stage in his career…not just cashing in on a hot format.
I LOVE THIS SONG!! IT’S MY FAVORITE AT THE TIME BEING!! I DIDN’T KNOW THE BAND HOOTIE AND THE BLOW FISH BUT MY PARENTS LIKED THEM AND THEY BOTH THING DARIUS MADE A GREAT CHOICE IN WHICHING TO COUNTRY!! :)
I thing you sing great!