‘Tattoos’ and Tales: The Inspirations Behind Brantley Gilbert’s Latest Tunes
Fresh from releasing his seventh album, Tattoos, Brantley Gilbert dropped by and chatted with Backstage Country’s Kelly Ford to tell the stories behind his songs.
Brantley Gilbert featuring Ashley Cooke: “Over When We’re Sober”
Ford noted how relatable the song is. Gilbert agreed, “I think we can all relate to a certain extent. I think if anybody says they haven’t had at least one toxic relationship, they lied.” He added, “It’s just about, you know, maybe the tendency to forget how toxic a relationship is, maybe when you’ve been drinking.” That really hit the nail on the head. This song pretty much called out everyone guilty of drunk calling or drunk texting an ex.
“Off the Rails”
Gilbert told Ford the story behind “Off the Rails.” It was a song that almost didn’t get its fair share of the spotlight. “We wrote that a few years back at a retreat at my farm in Alabama, and it was one of those songs that other songs beat it out to be on. The one album we’ve done since then. It was just that it didn’t really fit the theme.” Fortunately, with Tattoos, the song just fit right in. “We did this record a little bit different. And, you know, this was another no-holds-barred, no-rules in the studio. Just, man, have fun and break stuff.” This song is also the title of his current tour and show opener.
“God Isn’t Country”
Featuring Gary Levox, “God Isn’t Country” is not just a collaboration between two great country music artists, it’s a collab between friends. “Gary and I have been friends for years. I think the world of him, he’s one of the funniest people I know.” Since both are mama’s boys, they agreed that if they make a song together, it would be a song that their mothers would be proud of without any part of the lyrics bleeped out.
“Me and My House”
Another collaboration, this time with Struggle Jennings and Demun Jones, “Me and My House” is what Ford called a “classic Brantley” with themes revolving around family and God. Gilbert explained, “I know a lot of people try to pigeonhole it politically, but this song is literally just about the way we run our houses and the husbands and dads we try to be.”
Be sure to tune in to Backstage Country from September 16 to 20, where Brantley Gilbert will be sharing more stories and insights about the making of his latest album, Tattoos. You won’t want to miss it.
