GOSHEN, Ind. – From the subtle twang of its opening seconds to its crescendoing drums, the introduction of “White Horse” has a steady rise of power behind it that sets the tone for the remainder of the song.
“White Horse” is an excellent example of Stapleton’s affinity for blending typical country stylings with blues, rock and southern soul, which all shine through in different ways.
In this writer’s interpretation (without having simply looked up the answer), Stapleton (or a character within the song) sings of riding off with a lover into the sunset on a white horse; a la the end of a classic western.
But Stapleton’s lyrics show that he isn’t ready to do that yet, admitting that ‘Right now’s just not the time’ and ‘Some things a man’s just got to do.’
So for now, Stapleton is content with riding that white horse onward, presumably further into his music career; yet another sign that the 45-year-old shows no signs of slowing down.
His voice is gravely in the best way, and filled with soul. The song’s lyrical structure gives Stapleton plenty of room to show off his range as well, with screeches that will make your hair stand on end.
Buoyed by a powerful vocal performance and a strong backbeat, it’s no surprise to see “White Horse” performing as well as it is, as it currently sits at #31 on the US Top 100 Singles chart; his highest debut on the charts since signing with Mercury Records in 1997, according to Country Now.
“White Horse” is the lead single off his upcoming album, “Higher” set to be released on November 10.
