Midland’s ‘Drinking Problem’ is for all the heartbroken people out there drowning themselves in sorrow with the only solution that makes sense to them: alcohol. This song truly resonated to many which it was not surprising how it scored Midland a No. 1 hit and a quite a list of awards as well.
‘Drinkin’ Problem’ is the Texan trio’s debut single released on February 27, 2017, from their album On The Rocks. The song was penned by the band members – lead vocalist Mark Wystrach, bassist Cameron Duddy and guitarist Jess Carson – alongside Josh Osborne and Shane McAnally. The hit tunesmiths also produced the song with award-winning American record song producer Dann Huff.
In an interview with The Boot, Wystrach, Osborne, and McAnally recounted the day that ‘Drinkin’ Problem’ was born. According to Osborne, the song was based off the traditional country hook that one character said in an old episode of M.A.S.H. One character addressed how the other character had a drinking problem, to which it replied that he had no problem drinking at all.
He thought that the idea didn’t just fit anywhere and he was not sure whether it was the direction that the band was going for. Nevertheless, he mentioned the idea to Shane McAnally, and Shane loved it. It was the first song that the five worked on. Everyone knew where it was going, so they just needed to shape it.
The result was just exceptional. Lyrics-wise, it had a very simple and relatable story. Coupled with the impressive combination of the guitar and cymbals, the song will hook you from intro to end. The song’s music video was directed by the group’s bassist Cameron Duddy and was shot in Lockhart, Texas.
‘Drinkin’ Problem’ was certified Gold last August 2017 by the RIAA, Platinum in January 2019, and double Platinum in September 2019. It also bagged several nominations, including the 2017 CMT Music Award for Group Video of the Year and the 2018 Grammy Award for Best Country Song.
Midland also recorded a Spanish version with the title ‘Brindemos’ with Mexican rock songwriter, producer, and musician, Jay de la Cueva. Midland’s Drinking Problem now also has an acoustic version which the band recorded during the quarantine. You can listen to the stripped-off version below.
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