Introduction
“Haunted” is a poignant collaboration between American country artists Kane Brown and Jelly Roll, featured on Brown’s fourth studio album, The High Road, released on January 24, 2025. This track delves deep into the personal struggles of both artists, addressing themes of depression and mental health, aiming to shed light on issues often left unspoken.
The inspiration for “Haunted” struck during Brown’s stay at the Stock Exchange Hotel in Manchester, England. Residing in a suite that once functioned as a bank vault, he was enveloped by an eerie ambiance, prompting him to remark, “This place is haunted.” This observation became the catalyst for a songwriting session that produced the emotionally charged track. Brown shared, “It’s about depression… no matter how much money you make… you do kind of feel haunted because you can’t escape it.”
Recognizing the song’s depth, Brown considered Jelly Roll as a fitting collaborator, given his history of addressing mental health in his music. Their initial connection was unexpected; mutual acquaintances revealed that Jelly Roll harbored misconceptions about Brown, leading to a strained perception. However, Brown extended an olive branch, inviting Jelly Roll to connect over shared interests like playing Call of Duty. This gesture fostered a genuine friendship, culminating in their partnership on “Haunted.” Reflecting on their journey, Brown recounted, “He was like, ‘I used to f–king hate this dude!’… But now I love this guy!”
Lyrically, “Haunted” confronts the internal battles both artists face, emphasizing that external success doesn’t shield one from inner turmoil. The chorus resonates with raw emotion:
‘Cause I’m haunted by the voice in my head
I’m haunted by the taste of that lead
I wanted too many times to jump off the edge
Thinkin’ I was better off dead
The collaboration not only merges their vocal talents but also amplifies the song’s message, aiming to reach a broader audience and provide solace to those grappling with similar issues. Brown expressed hope that the track would raise awareness, stating, “It’s really just a song that I wanted to put out there just to cause awareness… I feel like this song sums it up quite a bit.”
“Haunted” stands as a testament to the power of music in addressing mental health, offering a voice to those who may feel isolated in their struggles. Through their candid storytelling, Brown and Jelly Roll foster a sense of community and understanding, reminding listeners that they are not alone in their battles.