Introduction
“One Thing Right” is a notable collaboration between American country singer Kane Brown and electronic music producer Marshmello, released on June 21, 2019. This track stands out as Marshmello’s first venture into the country genre, blending elements of EDM, country pop, and pop-punk to create a unique sound that resonated with a diverse audience.
The inception of “One Thing Right” traces back to the 2018 American Music Awards, where both artists were recognized for their achievements—Brown securing three awards, including Favorite Male Artist – Country, and Marshmello winning Best Electronic Dance Artist. Following the event, Marshmello reached out to congratulate Brown, which sparked a conversation about potential collaboration. Brown had originally penned “One Thing Right” for his 2018 album “Experiment,” but the song didn’t make the final cut. Recognizing its potential, he shared the track with Marshmello, who was enthusiastic about its release as a single.
Lyrically, the song delves into themes of personal redemption and unwavering love. It narrates the journey of a man acknowledging his past mistakes and expressing gratitude for the steadfast support of his partner—the “one thing” he got right amidst his missteps. Brown has mentioned that the song reflects his own experiences and is a tribute to his wife, Katelyn Jae. He described it as a narrative of his past wrongdoings, emphasizing that the one correct decision he made was being with her.
Musically, “One Thing Right” merges Marshmello’s signature electronic beats with Brown’s country vocals, incorporating pop-punk elements and a trap-infused rhythm. This fusion showcases both artists’ versatility and willingness to explore beyond their traditional genres, resulting in a track that appeals to fans of both country and electronic music.
Upon its release, the song achieved significant commercial success. It climbed to number one on Billboard’s US Hot Country Songs chart on October 12, 2019, marking a milestone for both artists. By March 2020, “One Thing Right” had sold 273,000 copies in the United States and was certified quadruple platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in December 2023, signifying over four million units in combined sales and streaming.
The accompanying music video, released on July 19, 2019, portrays Brown and Marshmello as fugitives on the run, adding a visual narrative to the song’s themes of rebellion and redemption. The video begins with Marshmello’s release from prison, followed by a high-speed chase, symbolizing the pursuit of freedom and the challenges of escaping one’s past.
“One Thing Right” stands as a testament to the innovative blending of genres, demonstrating how artists from different musical backgrounds can collaborate to create a resonant and commercially successful piece. The song not only expanded the musical horizons for both Brown and Marshmello but also highlighted the evolving landscape of contemporary music, where genre boundaries are increasingly fluid.
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