About the song
“I’m Tryin'” by Trace Adkins is a powerful country ballad that blends raw emotion with a strong narrative. Released as part of his 2003 album Comin’ On Strong, the song encapsulates Adkins’ signature style: deep baritone vocals paired with a mix of regret, determination, and introspection.
Lyrics & Theme:
The song’s lyrics revolve around a man struggling to do the right thing despite personal flaws and mistakes. The protagonist repeatedly expresses the effort he’s making to better himself, but also acknowledges the difficulty in achieving it. This emotional vulnerability is something that resonates deeply with country music fans, who often appreciate honesty and real-life struggles in the songs they listen to.
Vocals:
Trace Adkins’ deep, gravelly voice is a standout here. His vocal delivery is soulful, adding a layer of authenticity and gravity to the song’s message. He conveys vulnerability without sounding overly sentimental, which is part of what makes “I’m Tryin'” feel genuine rather than cliché.
Production:
Musically, “I’m Tryin'” is relatively stripped back, allowing the emotional weight of the lyrics to take center stage. The instrumentation is typical of Adkins’ country sound, with acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and a slow rhythm that helps underscore the song’s reflective mood.
Overall Feel:
The song has a bittersweet quality, mixing regret with determination. It’s about striving to improve and confront one’s shortcomings, which is a theme that many people can relate to. It’s not just about failing, but about the willingness to keep trying, even when it feels like the odds are against you.
In terms of appeal, “I’m Tryin'” is perfect for those who enjoy introspective, soul-searching country songs. It’s the kind of track that might not get the radio play of his more upbeat hits, but it definitely holds weight for listeners who appreciate country music with depth.
Conclusion:
Overall, “I’m Tryin'” is a heartfelt, well-executed country ballad that demonstrates Trace Adkins’ vocal strength and emotional range. It’s a song that captures the essence of country storytelling—dealing with personal struggle, redemption, and perseverance. Fans of Trace Adkins and country music in general will find it to be a powerful and memorable piece.
Video
Lyrics
This gettin’ up early, pulling double shifts,Gonna make an old man of me long before I ever get rich.But I’m tryin’It’s been two years since we’ve finalized,I still ain’t used to puttin’ ex in front of wife.But I’m tryin’.Send more money right away, is pretty much all she has to say when sheCalls these days and don’t you be lateBut all I can do, is all I can do and I keep on tryin’And all I can be is all I can be and I keep on tryin’There’s always a mountain in front of me,Seems I’m always climbin’ and fallin’ and climbin’But I keep on tryin’I remember daddy sayin’ keep your eye on the ball, run like hell, play to win,Get up when you fallI’m tryin’Don’t say nothin’ that you can’t take backNever do anything you might regretNo don’t do thatDaddy I’m tryin’Know the difference between heaven and hellGo easy on the bottle be hard on yourselfAnd I know he meant wellBut all I can do, is all I can do and I keep on tryin’And all I can be is all I can be and I keep on tryin’There’s always a mountain in front of me,Seems I’m always climbin’ and fallin’ and climbin’But I keep on tryin’There’s always a mountain in front of meSeems I’m always climbin’ and stumblin’And then fallin’And then climbin’But I keep on tryin’This gettin’ up early pullin’ double shiftsGonna make an old man of meLong before I ever get richBut I’m tryin’