Robert Ross and Gil Grand Team Up for the Gritty New Single ‘Drink ‘Em Down’
Canadian/Australian singer-songwriter Robert Ross is once again setting the stage for an unforgettable musical journey with the release of his new single, “Drink ‘Em Down.” This raw, emotive track delves deep into the heart of human experience, highlighting Ross’s uncanny ability to channel personal hardships into universal storytelling. Steeped in country music traditions, yet infused with a contemporary flair, “Drink ‘Em Down” is a captivating reminder of Ross’s growing prominence in the world of authentic, soul-stirring country music.
At the heart of “Drink ‘Em Down” lies a narrative both relatable and poignant—coping with the aftermath of a relationship marred by betrayal. With lyrical finesse, Ross unravels the emotions of a man who, after finding his partner unfaithful, seeks solace in the familiar yet fleeting refuge of alcohol. His decision to head down to the local bar, where heartbreak and whiskey intertwine, is a familiar tale for many, yet Ross delivers it with fresh intensity and aching honesty. The refrain, “chase that hurtin’ out of town,” echoes the common yet painful human instinct to drown sorrow in drink, while the line “the more I drink, the better I get” captures the complex interplay between self-destruction and emotional survival.
Ross doesn’t shy away from the heavy emotional load this story carries. Instead, he embraces it with the kind of honesty that sets him apart as a songwriter. His gritty, gravel-tinged vocals carry a weight of lived experience, making “Drink ‘Em Down” more than just a song—it’s a confession, a catharsis, and a conversation with the listener about loss, pain, and the ways we try to heal.
Co-written with award-winning Canadian artist and producer Gil Grand, “Drink ‘Em Down” is a masterclass in blending authenticity with polished, radio-ready production. Grand’s influence is evident in the song’s balance between emotional rawness and professional sheen. Together, Ross and Grand have crafted a track that honors the traditional roots of country music while ensuring it resonates with modern audiences. The production maintains the essence of Ross’s storytelling, never overshadowing the message but elevating it, giving the song both radio appeal and lasting emotional impact.
The instrumentation features a rich blend of twangy guitars, steady percussion, and a perky piano that offsets the song’s more melancholic undertones. This careful arrangement allows Ross’s vocals to shine, creating a listening experience that is both soothing and stirring. The song’s infectious hook, “Drink ‘Em Down,” will have listeners singing along in no time, yet its underlying message of heartbreak gives the track a depth that lingers long after the last note fades.
For fans of Robert Ross, “Drink ‘Em Down” is a continuation of his remarkable evolution as an artist. Born and raised in New Brunswick, Canada, Ross was deeply influenced by the country legends his mother, Betty, would sing to him—icons like Johnny Cash and Merle Haggard. These early influences, combined with his own life experiences, have forged a songwriting style that is deeply personal, grounded in tradition, and marked by an unflinching honesty.
Ross’s journey hasn’t been an easy one. After serving 11 and a half years in the Canadian Army, he turned his focus to his musical passion, performing across Australia, Nashville, and his native Canada. His debut album, “It’s Never Too Late,” was a breakout success, topping the Australian Country Music and Indie international charts, with hits like “Jack Daniels” and “Driving Me Insane” establishing him as a formidable voice in country music. With each release, Ross has demonstrated a unique ability to weave his own hardships into universally relatable stories, and “Drink ‘Em Down” is no exception.
While “Drink ‘Em Down” is firmly rooted in classic country, there’s a subtle rockabilly undertone that adds a lively energy to the track. This blend of genres showcases Ross’s versatility as an artist, as he plays with tempo and mood to create a song that’s as much fun as it is meaningful. The track’s toe-tapping rhythm and sing-along quality make it a likely favorite at live performances, where Ross’s debonair stage presence and raw, authentic voice shine brightest.
Yet beneath the catchy chorus and upbeat instrumentation lies a deeper, more introspective narrative. The inclusion of a bartender character in the lyrics adds a layer of narrative complexity, offering listeners a hint of the protagonist’s backstory. The bar, a classic symbol in country music, becomes both a place of solace and a reminder of the futility of trying to escape one’s problems. This duality—between the fun, lively exterior and the heartbreak underneath—is what makes “Drink ‘Em Down” a standout track.
With “Drink ‘Em Down,” Robert Ross continues to cement his place in the upper echelons of country music. This track is not just another song about drinking away your sorrows—it’s an exploration of the emotional turmoil that follows betrayal and the ways in which we seek temporary relief. Ross’s ability to craft songs that resonate on such a personal level while still feeling universal is a testament to his artistry and his connection to the roots of country music.
Whether you’re a long-time fan of Robert Ross or discovering his music for the first time, “Drink ‘Em Down” is a must-listen. It’s a song that will have you tapping your feet, singing along, and reflecting on life’s tougher moments—all while appreciating the comfort that great music can bring. As Ross continues to carve out his place in the global country scene, one thing is certain: his ability to transform pain into art is second to none, and “Drink ‘Em Down” is a shining example of that skill.
OFFICIAL LINKS: www.robertrossmusic.com
