Single Review: Never Really Wanted – Eric Paslay

14 years ago Liv Carter 3

Songwriters: Eric Paslay/Walt Aldridge

From the very first time I heard ‘Never Really Wanted’ I knew I was listening to a radio hit just waiting for a chance. Now, as the debut single for Texas singer/songwriter Eric Paslay, it finally gets to take a shot at country radio success.

‘Never Really Wanted’ sees the protagonist regret he didn’t respond when a girl was vying for his affection. She has now moved on which suddenly makes her irresistible. Why do we always want what we can’t have?, Paslay asks ruefully before admitting to his feelings in the chorus. The conclusion is saved for the bridge where he warns others they better get that girl while the getting’s good//there’s a list of fools that wish they could

Having heard this tune at various live shows, both acoustic and with the full band, this production geared toward radio takes getting used to. There is a lot of music for Paslay to compete with. Too much. His normally smooth yet forceful vocals veer towards Tom Petty here, especially in the second verse. It works, though, as it adds an extra hint of lament to the interpretation.

Where this song really shines is in the chorus. It is quite simply one of the catchiest few phrases I have ever heard! With some neat writing and clever delivery it almost makes it sound like there is a syllable too many, but it drives the whole thing forward with such charm that it will lodge itself in your head for days.

So, country radio, do your thing and make this a solid hit. Eric Paslay already has Top 10 success as co-writer of Jake Owen‘s ‘Barefoot Blue Jean Night’. Now it’s time for him to stand in the spotlight all by himself.

Liv Carter

Liv Carter

Liv is a career coach for creatives, and the people who work with them.
She holds several certificates from Berklee College of Music, and a certificate in Positive Psychology from UC Berkeley.
Her main influences are coffee, cats, and Alexander Hamilton.
Liv Carter

Latest posts by Liv Carter (see all)