Courtesy of Big Machine Records
NASHVILLE, TN (February 26, 2021) – Exuding a notable maturity in his voice, newly 21-year-old PAYTON SMITH offers the complexities of broken love with “This Ain’t That Song,” out today via Big Machine Records – listen here. As the song builds from perceived longing, a clever shift emerges in the powerful chorus.
“’This Ain’t That Song’ is a great representation of what I love about songwriting. You think it will go one way and then, the story completely turns around on you, bringing even more focus to each lyric,” says Payton. “My favorite lines are in the second verse where all the things you should, or think you would be feeling, end up the opposite.”
The Louisiana native, who CMT heralded a 2020/2021 Listen Up artist, MusicRow named to their Next Big Thing Class of 2021 and Taste of Country enlisted as one of 2020’s Hottest Country Artists Under 25, is known for his impeccable self-taught guitar skills and clear imagery. Payton succinctly amplifies the emotionally-driven song in anacoustic video filmed just outside of Nashville in Liepers Fork, noticeable breath cutting through with the same intensity as he belts the lyrics:
But this ain’t that song
That tries to make ya cry
Make you feel bad about your goodbye
This ain’t some prideful heart just talking
Girl keep walking
He continues, “I was thankful to have my songwriting hero, Casey Beathard, in the room with me for this one. The riff, the melody and the production of the song really captures the essence of the hard truths in Country music but there is a rebellious kind of Rock energy that gives a power ballad feel.”
The new music follows the release of “What It Meant To Lose You” and its accompanying music video featuring TikTok phenom Jay Sage aka @imthejay and a self-titled EP. MusicRow raved “shows off a mix of solid songs, youthful charm and his killer skills as a multi-instrumentalist.” Playing every part on each track just like his favorite guitar icons across the sonic landscape, the project has amassed over 36 million streams worldwide. Certain that his peers have equally varied musical tastes, the rising star brings a hybrid of his influences to the genre – every bit as much a fan of Pearl Jam and John Mayer as he is Clint Black and George Strait. With his It Started With A Song series Payton has covered some of the artists who have indirectly shaped his sound and showmanship. Taste of Country praises how his “raw talent, authenticity and strong work ethic are bound to bring him country music success for many, many years.” Payton has was also featured on Spotify’s Hot Country Presents: Best Country Songs of 2020.
Payton will host a virtual concert tomorrow (2/27) to support the East Tennessee Children’s Hospital’s in partnership with University of Tennessee student run VOLthon. Tune in to the live performance at 7:45-8:45P ET on the Riff app. Payton will match up to $1,000 in donations, plus and Big Machine Label Group’s Music Has Value make a $1,000 contribution. To give, simply text ‘Payton’ to 51555 to receive a link to donate. All donations made to VOLthon will stay in our community, benefiting patients receiving care at East Tennessee Children’s Hospital.
Payton shares more of his upbringing and personality in Outdoors with Payton – Explore episodes now. Visit paytonsmithmusic.com and follow @thepaytonsmith on Facebook/Twitter/Instagram/TikTok.
