Mark Bryan – “Don’t Change a Thing” [Song Review]

Mark Bryan, the double GRAMMY® Award-winning, multi-Platinum-certified singer-songwriter, lead guitarist and co-founding member of Hootie & The Blowfish, recently unveiled the music video for his single, “Don’t Change a Thing,” a track from his upcoming solo album, Popped, dropping on October 25.

According to Bryan, “I’m finding different ways to write songs and that takes you to different places stylistically… I get an idea, and I’m just following the feel of the song in my head.”

Bryan’s intuitive ‘follow-your-muse’ approach shines forth on Popped, a collection of songs ranging from Americana to folk ballads, to Caribbean-spiked pop, to heavy rock, to doo wop. The result is a relaxed, wide-ranging album brimming with an easygoing feel.

“Don’t Change a Thing” follows on the heels of “Ain’t Nothing Better,” “To You, My Friend,” a ska-laced tribute to a departed friend, and “Coastin’,” a summery, feel-good, Beach Boys-like tune.

A low-slung, sparkling, Latin-gingered intro sets the stage for the amorous melody of “Don’t Change a Thing.” Riding a catchy rhythm, a light guitar and just-right brass accents give the tune an effortless, upbeat motion, a motion that rolls and sways with hints of charming, playful sensuality.

Mark Bryan, photo by Jonathan Boncek Photography

Asymmetrical vocals imbue the lyrics with capricious zest, a kind of delightful hop, on the verses, followed by soft-serve creamy harmonies on the chorus: “As much of a cutie as you are a beauty / You don’t need to change a thing.”

With his latest single/music video, Mark Bryan creates an antidote to the stress of everyday life, taking listeners on a delicious vacation.

Run Time: 3:24
Release Date: August 23, 2024
Record Label: Vere Music