Jenna Raine’s single “Good Grief” is a polished country ballad that thoughtfully delves into the emotional difficulty of healing after a breakup. The song presents a high level of craftsmanship and offers listeners a touching exploration of this theme, though some may find that its style doesn’t fully connect with their personal tastes.
Musically, “Good Grief” features soft guitar that builds into a more powerful chorus, aligning with the emotional journey the lyrics intend to portray. This progression is a common theme in pop/country ballads. However, the production comes across as formulaic, lacking a distinctive element to make the track stand out.
Lyrically, the song attempts to put a positive spin on the pain of a breakup, encapsulated in the line: “This feeling’s the prettiest kind of pain.” This metaphor aims to convey the idea that grief can lead to personal growth and newfound strength.
This is a relatable concept, however the delivery feels too similar to many other popular country/pop songs in the recent spotlight.
Critics have noted this aspect as well. Ryley Collins of WHS The Compass describes the song as “a perfectly average track,” suggesting that its broad appeal may be its weakness, rendering it from it’s full potential in a market populated with other songs of the same feel.
Collins further comments on the song’s tone, stating that “the good Samaritan tinge present in all of Raine’s songs is extra strong, this time though in an artificial and cloying way.”
On the other hand, Clare Gehlich from Melodic Magazine offers a more favorable view, highlighting Raine’s ability to turn everyday lessons into music that encourages self-expression.
“Raine’s natural and emotional songwriting capabilities make falling on your face and messing up relatable when it feels like no one’s watching.”
This perspective highlights the song’s potential to connect with listeners navigating their own emotional journeys.
While “Good Grief” is well produced and carries a very relatable message, it isn’t hitting all of the listeners’ marks. The song’s conventional structure and sentimental tone might not resonate with all audiences, particularly those looking for a more nuanced exploration of emotional themes.
