Released: 2017
Lee Brice’s ‘Rumor’ is a heartfelt country ballad that explores the tension between a budding romance and the gossip that surrounds it in a small town. The song captures the essence of small-town life, where everyone knows everyone, and rumors spread like wildfire.
In the opening verse, Brice sets the scene, describing a familiar setting of a local bar where he’s known the girl forever. They’ve spent countless nights together, and their closeness has sparked the curiosity of their friends. The line ‘My boys are laughin’ and tap me on the shoulder’ is a typical small-town scenario where friends notice the chemistry between two people before they do.
The chorus ‘There’s a rumor goin’ round about me and you’ encapsulates the main theme of the song. It’s about the gossip that’s stirring up the town, hinting at a possible romantic connection between the two. The line ‘So tell me why we even tryin’ to deny this feelin” shows that both of them are aware of their feelings for each other, but they’re hesitant to act on them.
The second verse shows Brice’s defiance against the rumors. He’s ready to shut them down or even give the townsfolk something to talk about by sharing a kiss with the girl. This verse highlights the struggle between wanting to keep their relationship private and the desire to embrace their feelings openly.
The line ‘Oh be honest girl now, Do you want to do this or not?’ shows Brice seeking confirmation from the girl. He’s asking her if she’s ready to take their relationship to the next level, despite the gossip that might ensue.
In the end, the repeated line ‘What d’you say we make it true?’ signifies Brice’s readiness to turn the rumors into reality. He’s willing to make their relationship official, regardless of what the town might say. This song beautifully captures the complexity of navigating a romantic relationship in a small town, where privacy is scarce and rumors are plentiful.
