Released: 2018
Morgan Wallen’s “The Way I Talk” dives deep into the heart of country identity, embracing and celebrating the Southern dialect as a badge of honor rather than a mark of shame. This anthem is all about being true to your roots, no matter where you go or who you’re with. It cleverly mixes pride and personality, showing us that our ways of speaking are more than just words—they’re a reflection of our upbringing, our community, and our deepest values.
The song kicks off by setting the stage, mentioning how his accent carries a hint of his hometown, which surprisingly, attracts folks from places as far-flung as California. Here, Wallen introduces us to the concept that our speech can tell stories of where we’re from, and that even if others poke fun, there’s something inherently attractive about being genuine. When Wallen talks about his accent getting “slower after three or four cold beers” and “louder when I’m cheering on the Volunteers,” he’s painting a vivid picture of how our language can change based on mood or setting, yet always remains a part of us, like a loyal friend.
Wallen’s lyrics “It sounds a little bit like my daddy/It don’t cuss around my mama” delve into the respect and values intertwined in the way he speaks. He highlights the influence of family and upbringing on our speech, suggesting that how and when we choose our words can be a sign of respect and upbringing. There’s a sense of pride that shines through when Wallen talks about not wanting to “fix it” and just rolling with it, which is a nod to accepting oneself fully.
The chorus hammers home the song’s main theme with “Oh, kinda slow like the Mississippi rolls/It’s the only way I know.” This line not only evokes the natural, steady pace of life often associated with the South but also ties it back to Wallen’s acceptance and pride in his roots. The reference to the Mississippi river is symbolic of something that’s powerful and enduring, much like his dialect and cultural identity.
As the song closes, Wallen doubles down on the sentiment that his way of speaking is deeply connected to his identity with lines like “Slow, like a Sunday morning service back home” and “kinda sweet when I got a girl to love on.” These lines provide a softer, more personal glimpse into how his speech affects his interactions and experiences. It’s a reminder that our accents and ways of talking can carry the warmth of our personal histories and the places we hold dear.
Overall, “The Way I Talk” is a powerful anthem for embracing our origins and the unique aspects of our identity that shape us. Wallen’s message is clear: be proud of where you come from and let your true self shine through. It’s a reminder that in a world that often pressures us to conform, there’s immense strength in standing tall and being unapologetically you.
