Dan + Shay’s catchy, wistful new ballad “Tequila” is blowing up this week’s new music scene. The song describes how the taste of tequila will always bring back vivid memories of a past relationship. The duo describes how going out to parties, meeting new people, and other everyday life experiences have no effect, but tequila still has that nostalgic hold. Songwriting credits include Dan Smyers and Shay Mooney, Nicolle Galyon (Miranda Lambert’s “Automatic”) and Jordan Reynolds (“Kiss Me Like a Stranger,” Thomas Rhett).
With a song titled “Tequila,” you’d expect a loud party anthem leaning on heavily overused cliches. Instead, this song offers sweet yearning and longing, while remaining catchy and offering unique lyrical choices. “Colorado” is used in the chorus, which is a welcome change from typical geographical shout-outs. “Serotta T-shirt” also sticks out as something new, which references a former bicycle building company based out of Saratoga Springs, New York. “Whiskey” is (refreshingly) only referenced once.
Shay Mooney’s smooth vocals paired with Dan Smyer’s harmonies are easy to enjoy, the strings add a nice touch of emotion, and the sparkling production makes this song an instantly-likeable hit.