Released: 2021
“23” by Chayce Beckham is a raw and poignant reflection on growing up, the struggles of young adulthood, and the ways we cope with the expectations placed on us. It’s a ballad that intertwines the recklessness of youth with the pressing weight of coming of age, all while carrying the heavy load of regrets and the desire to do better.
The song kicks off with a heartfelt confession, echoing the simple yet profound advice Beckham received from his mom – a promise of future success and the universal pressure to become “someone”. This sets the stage for a story about grappling with this promise while navigating the pitfalls of being 21, feeling “as loaded as a stagecoach shotgun”—a metaphor that vividly portrays how overwhelmed and pressured he feels, teetering on the edge of self-destruction.
Beckham then takes us through his journey from Oklahoma to California, painting a picture of a young man chasing his dreams and fighting to meet expectations. The mention of his father and uncle introduces a generational narrative, hinting at learned behaviors and perhaps where some of his struggles stem from. Meanwhile, the move to California and fronting a band gives us a glimpse into his attempts to live up to the promise made to his mother, chasing success but also falling into the pitfalls of excess.
The chorus, “Now I’m 23 and there ain’t nobody who can drink like me”, is both a brag and a cry for help—acknowledging his capability to outdrink anyone but also hinting at the loneliness and despair that comes with such a title. The realization that he “can’t drink no more” by 24 symbolizes a hopeful turning point, an understanding that the path he’s on is unsustainable.
Another layer of the song’s narrative involves a long-term relationship, adding depth to Beckham’s reflection on his past. The relationship is marked by shared simple joys and enduring love, yet it too succumbs to the destructive patterns Beckham finds himself unable to escape. This loss serves as another catalyst for his realization of the need for change, highlighting the personal stakes tied to his behavior.
Ending where it began, the song circles back to the advice of his mother, creating a poignant bookend to the narrative. The repetition serves as a reminder of the expectations he’s still grappling with and the hope that still exists for redemption and growth. By returning to this advice, Beckham underscores the song’s central theme: the journey towards becoming “someone” is fraught with setbacks and learning experiences, but there’s always a possibility for change and the fulfillment of our promised potential.
In essence, “23” by Chayce Beckham is a compelling tale of youth, excess, lost love, and the hope for redemption. It strikes a chord with anyone who’s ever felt the weight of expectations and the desire to find their way back to the right path.
