Johnnie Mikel – “I Hope It Hurts” [Song Review]

Not long ago, alt-pop artist Johnnie Mikel dropped his new single, “I Hope It Hurts,” an appetizer for his forthcoming album, Purgatory, produced by James Michael (Mötley Crüe, Alanis Morissette, Kelly Clarkson).

Speaking about the influences on his sound, Mikel says, “My favorite artists and biggest influences are the groundbreaking ones with a message. I love artists that feel like an enigma because they are multi-faceted and always evolving.”

Born in Bowling Green, Kentucky, Mikel developed a passion for the art of storytelling and immersed himself in music.

According to Mikel, “As a child, I didn’t know many people who had the same interests. I felt very much an artist and an idealist but didn’t know how to claim that identity in the place I was living.”

All that changed when his family moved to New York City when Mikel was 11 years old. NYC introduced him to a sense of individuality.

Mikel explains, “The immediate exposure to an influx of art, music, and fashion quickly taught me that being yourself is a positive thing.”

Since then, he’s worked with artists such as Tommy Lee, Lauren Christy, Lindy Robbins, and Nash Overstreet, along with sharing the stage with Charlie Daniels, Little River Band, and Josh Turner.

In 2016, Mikel created the One Word Foundation, inspired by the idea that one word, choice, or chance can change the course of a life. Through the foundation, Mikel has teamed up with various charities and Boys and Girls Clubs across the country to benefit those in need. Mikel is currently studying Political Science and Economics at Western Kentucky University.

Johnnie Mikel

The intro to “I Hope It Hurts” features an evocative piano, followed by the entry of Mikel’s slightly scratchy voice. As the song ramps up, it takes on surging washes of alt-pop energy. Ebbing and rising, the harmonics descend to gentle tones and then ascend to heavy guitars.

On the chorus, Mikel’s vocals unwrap vibrant textures, imbuing the lyrics with intense emotion.

“When you’re cold and alone and you open your eyes / And you see that I’m not the one who’s lying beside you / Tell me, does it hurt like hell? / I hope it hurts.”

With “I Hope It Hurts,” Johnnie Mikel reveals his gift for composing charismatic music as well as his engaging voice.

Run Time: 3:26
Release Date: September 9, 2022
Record Label: 11th Hour Music