Lovin' Made Me Mean (Leo33, 2026)
Sela Campbell
Reviewed by Gloria Wimberly
In "Diamond In Your Pocket," Campbell recognizes her worth and how she was undervalued in her past relationship. With a vibe similar to Miranda Lambert's and powerful vocals, she delivers a strong message. The central theme of the diamond metaphor is seen in the lyrics "You had a diamond in your pocket, But you were still pickin' pennies off the ground."
"Blonde" highlights Campbell's witty songwriting, blending seamlessly with the acoustic guitar and sharp vocals. After being told by her former partner to dye her hair, she transformed the message of "going blonde" into an anthem of reclaiming her worth. Rather than changing her appearance, she "went blonde" by moving on and finding someone who appreciates her for who she is.
"Lovin' Made Me Mean" encapsulates the entire project's feeling of frustration, power and reclaiming the narrative. It serves as a storytelling anthem of how she "changed" from a naive girl to a thick-skinned, tough woman who no longer tolerates small-minded and manipulative people.
"Hell of A Night" brings a female-driven, revenge anthem energy similar to that of "Goodbye Earl" and "Before He Cheats." Through a powerful and assertive narrative, Campbell tells a story of two women joining forces to get back at the men that did them wrong.
Campbell leans into a twangy energy alongside her distinct raspy vocals and songwriting abilities. Rather than succumbing to the sadness that follows a heartbreak, she expresses feelings of empowerment and navigates her path towards self-discovery. With recognizable influences of Waylon Jennings, Dolly Parton and Lambert, she blends a classic country sound with modern-day teenage angst.
CDs by Sela Campbell
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