Background
“Get Along” was released in 2018 as the lead single from Kenny Chesney’s eighteenth studio album, “Songs for the Saints.” The album itself was inspired by the devastation Hurricane Irma brought to the Virgin Islands, a place Chesney considers a second home. While “Get Along” wasn’t specifically written about the hurricane, it reflects the broader themes of resilience, community, and finding common ground that emerged in the aftermath of the disaster. The song was written by Shane McAnally, Josh Osborne, and Ross Copperman, frequent collaborators in the country music scene known for their heartfelt and relatable songwriting.
Musical Style
“Get Along” embodies Chesney’s signature blend of country, rock, and island influences. Its laid-back, feel-good vibe is reminiscent of his earlier hits that celebrate a carefree, beach-inspired lifestyle. The song features a prominent acoustic guitar, driving rhythm section, and subtle steel guitar accents that add a touch of traditional country flavor. However, the overall production leans towards a more polished, pop-friendly sound characteristic of contemporary country music. The song’s tempo is upbeat and moderately paced, making it suitable for both radio airplay and singalongs at live performances. The melody is simple yet catchy, with a singalong chorus that reinforces the song’s central message of unity.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Get Along” advocate for finding common ground and embracing differences despite political, social, or personal divides. The song’s core message is conveyed through simple, everyday observations and aphorisms. Chesney sings about seemingly disparate groups – “hillbillies and hippies,” “cowboys and Indians” – suggesting that despite their differences, they can coexist peacefully. The lyrics emphasize shared humanity, suggesting that we all experience similar joys and struggles regardless of our backgrounds. The song doesn’t delve into complex political issues or offer specific solutions to societal problems. Instead, it focuses on promoting a general attitude of tolerance and understanding. Lines like “Get along on down the road/We’ve got a long way to go” suggest a journey towards greater harmony and encourage listeners to embrace the process of finding common ground. The song also touches on themes of personal responsibility and self-reflection, with lyrics like “You gotta learn to live with what you can’t change/And what you can, well, you gotta let it go.” This message of acceptance and letting go of negativity complements the broader theme of unity. The repetition of the phrase “Get along” throughout the song serves as a mantra, reinforcing the central message and making it easily memorable.
Cultural Impact
“Get Along” resonated with a wide audience, reaching the top of the Billboard Country Airplay chart and crossing over to the mainstream Billboard Hot 100. The song’s message of unity and understanding was particularly timely in a period of heightened political and social polarization in the United States. While not explicitly addressing specific political issues, the song’s call for tolerance and common ground tapped into a widespread desire for unity and a break from divisive rhetoric. The song’s success can be attributed to several factors. First, Chesney’s established fanbase ensured a large initial audience. Second, the song’s positive and uplifting message appealed to listeners across different demographics and political affiliations. Third, the catchy melody and singalong chorus made the song easily memorable and radio-friendly. “Get Along” became an anthem of sorts, played at various events promoting unity and community spirit. It was also used in advertising campaigns, further amplifying its message of togetherness. The song’s impact, however, was primarily cultural rather than political. It didn’t spark any significant policy changes or directly address specific social issues. Nevertheless, it contributed to a broader conversation about the importance of finding common ground and fostering understanding in a divided society. The song’s popularity also reflects a growing trend in country music towards incorporating themes of social consciousness and inclusivity, albeit in a generally non-partisan and broadly appealing manner.
Commercial Performance
“Get Along” achieved significant commercial success, solidifying Kenny Chesney’s status as a leading figure in contemporary country music. The song topped the Billboard Country Airplay chart, marking his 30th number-one single on that chart. It also reached a respectable position on the Billboard Hot 100, indicating crossover appeal beyond the core country music audience. The song’s success was further evidenced by strong digital sales and streaming numbers, reflecting its popularity in the evolving music consumption landscape. “Get Along” received certifications from the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA), signifying substantial sales and streaming figures. The song’s commercial success not only contributed to the album’s overall performance but also reinforced Chesney’s enduring popularity and ability to connect with a broad audience. The song’s commercial viability was enhanced by its radio-friendly sound, positive message, and Chesney’s established brand recognition. Its success also demonstrated the continuing market for country music that blends traditional influences with contemporary production and themes of unity and positivity.
Conclusion
“Get Along” stands as a significant song in Kenny Chesney’s discography, not only for its commercial success but also for its timely message of unity and understanding. While the song doesn’t delve into complex political or social issues, its simple yet powerful message resonated with a wide audience seeking common ground amidst division. “Get Along” showcases Chesney’s ability to blend his signature island-infused country sound with lyrics that reflect broader cultural sentiments. The song’s impact was primarily cultural, contributing to a larger conversation about the importance of tolerance and understanding. Its lasting legacy lies in its ability to evoke a sense of optimism and togetherness, reminding listeners of the shared humanity that binds us despite our differences. “Get Along” remains a popular anthem for unity and a testament to the power of music to inspire positive change, even in subtle ways. It serves as a reminder that music can provide solace, promote understanding, and offer a sense of hope in challenging times, solidifying its place as a meaningful contribution to the contemporary country music landscape. The song’s enduring appeal suggests that its message of unity will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come.