Background
“Shallow” wasn’t originally written or performed by Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. It was penned by Lady Gaga, Mark Ronson, Anthony Rossomando, and Andrew Wyatt for the 2018 film “A Star is Born,” and famously performed by Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper. The song garnered immense critical acclaim, winning numerous awards, including the Academy Award for Best Original Song, Golden Globe Award for Best Original Song, and four Grammy Awards. Garth Brooks’ connection to the song began when he and his wife, Trisha Yearwood, were watching the film. Deeply moved by the scene and the song, Yearwood suggested they learn it. They began performing it during their Facebook Live show, “Inside Studio G,” in 2019. The overwhelmingly positive fan response prompted them to record a studio version, which was included on Brooks’ 2019 album, “Fun.” While not a single release, the Brooks & Yearwood version has become a fan favorite and a staple in their live performances.
Musical Style
The original “Shallow” is characterized as a country pop power ballad. It features a gradual build-up, starting with a stripped-down, acoustic arrangement focused on Gaga’s vocals before transitioning into a soaring, anthemic chorus with rock instrumentation. Brooks and Yearwood’s rendition, while still retaining the core ballad structure and emotional intensity, leans more heavily into the country aesthetic. The prominent use of steel guitar, fiddle, and a more traditional country instrumentation adds a distinctive flavor to the track. While Gaga and Cooper’s version emphasizes a raw, almost desperate vocal delivery, Brooks and Yearwood’s vocals are polished and controlled, highlighting their technical proficiency and emotive harmonies. Their voices blend seamlessly, showcasing the years of experience and their intimate connection as both musical partners and a married couple. The overall tempo is slightly slower and more deliberate, allowing the listener to absorb the lyrics and the nuanced vocal performances.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Shallow” explore themes of longing, vulnerability, and the search for genuine connection in a superficial world. The verses describe the disillusionment and emptiness felt by the characters, who are trapped in shallow relationships and unfulfilling lives. The chorus represents a yearning for something deeper and more meaningful, a desire to dive into the depths of true emotion and intimacy. Lines like “Tell me somethin’, girl / Are you happy in this modern world? / Or do you need more? / Is there somethin’ else you’re searchin’ for?” express this existential questioning and the desire for authenticity. The iconic line, “I’m off the deep end, watch as I dive in / I’ll never meet the ground,” signifies a leap of faith into the unknown, a willingness to embrace vulnerability and risk heartbreak in pursuit of genuine connection. In the context of “A Star is Born,” the lyrics represent the burgeoning romance between the two main characters, their shared artistic passion, and their escape from the shallowness of the music industry. While the context is slightly different for Brooks and Yearwood, the themes of longing and connection still resonate deeply. Their performance imbues the lyrics with a sense of mature love and the enduring power of commitment, reflecting their own long-standing relationship.
Cultural Impact
The original version of “Shallow” had a massive cultural impact, becoming a global phenomenon. Its success transcended genre boundaries, appealing to pop, country, and rock audiences alike. The song’s popularity was fueled by the critical acclaim of “A Star is Born,” the powerful on-screen chemistry between Gaga and Cooper, and the song’s universal themes of love and longing. “Shallow” became a karaoke staple, a wedding song favorite, and a ubiquitous presence on radio and streaming platforms. It also sparked numerous covers and parodies, solidifying its place in popular culture. While Brooks and Yearwood’s version didn’t achieve the same level of global saturation, it resonated strongly with their existing fanbase. Their interpretation introduced the song to a country audience that might not have otherwise engaged with the original. It also showcased the versatility of the song, demonstrating how its core message could be effectively translated into a different musical style. Furthermore, their version reinforced the enduring popularity of both artists, demonstrating their ability to connect with audiences across generations and musical preferences. It became a highlight of their live shows, solidifying its place within their own musical canon.
Comparison with the Original
Comparing the two versions highlights the distinct artistic choices made by each pair of performers. Gaga and Cooper’s rendition is marked by a rawness and intensity that mirrors the tumultuous nature of their characters’ relationship in the film. Their performance is charged with a sense of urgency and desperation, reflecting the characters’ struggles with addiction and fame. Brooks and Yearwood’s interpretation, on the other hand, emphasizes emotional depth and vocal harmony. Their performance feels more seasoned and reflective, conveying a sense of enduring love and commitment. The instrumentation in each version also contributes to the distinct moods. The rock-infused arrangement of the original underscores the dramatic arc of the song, while the country instrumentation in Brooks and Yearwood’s version adds a touch of classic Americana. Ultimately, both versions are powerful in their own right, showcasing the versatility of the song and the unique talents of the performers.
Conclusion
Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood’s rendition of “Shallow” offers a unique and compelling interpretation of an already iconic song. While the original version remains a cultural touchstone, the Brooks and Yearwood version stands as a testament to the power of great songwriting and the ability of talented artists to breathe new life into familiar material. By infusing the song with their signature country sound and their deeply personal performance style, they created a version that resonates with their own fanbase and offers a fresh perspective on the universal themes of love, longing, and connection. Their “Shallow” isn’t just a cover; it’s a reimagining that showcases the enduring appeal of the song and the artistry of two country music legends. Their decision to record and perform “Shallow” demonstrates not only their musical versatility but also their deep appreciation for a powerful and moving song, solidifying it as both a tribute to the original and a distinctive piece within their own impressive repertoire.