In the ever-evolving landscape of country music, few songs encapsulate personal growth and life’s unpredictable journey as poignantly as Thomas Rhett’s “Life Changes.” Released in 2018, this autobiographical track offers listeners a melodic glimpse into Rhett’s transformative experiences, from his college days to fatherhood. Its relatable narrative and catchy composition have resonated with many, making it a standout in contemporary country music.
About The Composition
- Title: Life Changes
- Composer: Thomas Rhett, Rhett Akins, Ashley Gorley, Jesse Frasure
- Premiere Date: April 16, 2018
- Album: Life Changes
- Genre: Country pop
Background
“Life Changes” serves as the fourth single from Thomas Rhett’s third studio album of the same name. Co-written with his father, Rhett Akins, along with Ashley Gorley and Jesse Frasure, the song delves into Rhett’s personal milestones, including his marriage to Lauren Akins and the adoption of their daughter, Willa Gray. The track’s introspective lyrics and modern production marked a departure from traditional country themes, reflecting Rhett’s evolving artistry. Upon its release, “Life Changes” was met with critical acclaim, praised for its authenticity and relatability.
Musical Style
The song is characterized by its upbeat tempo and blend of country instrumentation with pop sensibilities. Featuring a catchy chorus and conversational verses, Rhett employs a talk-singing style to narrate his life’s story. The production incorporates modern elements, such as programmed beats and polished guitar riffs, creating a sound that appeals to both country and pop audiences. This fusion of genres underscores the song’s theme of embracing change and growth.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Life Changes” chronicle Rhett’s personal journey, highlighting significant life events and the unexpected turns they’ve taken. Lines like “Ain’t it funny how life changes” emphasize the song’s central message: life’s unpredictability and the beauty found in its twists and turns. The narrative structure allows listeners to connect with Rhett’s experiences, finding parallels in their own lives.
Performance History
Since its release, “Life Changes” has become a staple in Thomas Rhett’s live performances. The song reached number one on the Billboard Country Airplay chart, solidifying its place in modern country music. Notable performances include Rhett’s rendition at the 2018 CMA Fest, where he shared the stage with his family, bringing the song’s narrative to life.
Cultural Impact
Beyond its commercial success, “Life Changes” has influenced the country music genre by blending personal storytelling with contemporary production. The song’s autobiographical nature has inspired other artists to infuse their music with personal narratives, contributing to a trend of authenticity in songwriting. Additionally, its crossover appeal has helped bridge the gap between country and pop music, attracting a diverse audience.
Legacy
“Life Changes” stands as a testament to Thomas Rhett’s growth as an artist and individual. Its enduring popularity reflects its universal themes and relatable storytelling. As listeners continue to find solace and inspiration in its lyrics, the song remains a significant piece in Rhett’s discography and a touchstone in contemporary country music.
Conclusion
Reflecting on “Life Changes,” it’s evident that the song resonates deeply due to its honest portrayal of life’s journey. For those looking to explore this track further, I recommend watching the official music video, which visually captures the song’s essence
Video
Lyrics
Waking up in my college dorm
Yeah, my life, it was pretty normal
Looking for a date to the spring formal
Wasn’t worried ’bout nothing else, no
Majoring in undecided
Notebook full of bad songs I was writing
Never dreamed anyone else would like’em
Now they’re sitting on a Walmart shelf
Ain’t it funny how life changes
You wake up, ain’t nothing the same and life changes
You can’t stop it, just hop on the train and
You never know what’s gonna happen
You make your plans and you hear god laughing
Life changes, and I wouldn’t change it for the world, the world, oh no
And I wouldn’t change it for the world, the world, oh no
I bought a ring and she said “I do”
But everybody else said, “man, you’re twenty-two
“Whatcha trying to prove?”
“Hey why don’t you wait?”
‘Cause I’ve been waiting on her since the second grade yeah
And now she got her own set of fans
She got a blue check mark by her Instagram
And I wrote a little song about holding her hand and now everybody wanna die happy now
Ain’t it funny how life changes
You wake up ain’t nothing the same and life changes
You can’t stop it just hop on the train
You never know what’s gonna happen
You make your plans and you god laughing
Life changes (yes it does) and I wouldn’t change it for the world, the world, oh no
And I wouldn’t change it for the world, the world, oh no
I remember the day I told my Daddy and Mama you’re gonna have a grandkid, yep
From Uganda, that’s right, we’re adopting
And she is the cutest little girl that you’ve ever seen
Well I was wrapping my head around being a dad
A bigger wrench got thrown in the plans we thought we’d had
Now Lauren’s showin’, got one on the way
Yeah that’s two under two, hey, what can I say?
Ain’t it funny how life changes
You wake up ain’t nothing the same and life changes
You can’t stop it just hop on the train and
You never know what’s gonna happen
You make your plans and you god laughing
Life changes (yes it does) and I wouldn’t change it for the world, the world, oh no
And I wouldn’t change it for the world, the world, oh no
The world, the world
The world, the world