“The cutest country music family”. 8 years ago today, country music star Kane Brown got engaged to KatelynJae on April 16, 2017, followed by marriage and 3 beautiful children!!

Introduction

In the summer of 2019, I was driving through the open roads of Tennessee, the windows down, and the radio blasting. A song came on that fused the twang of country with the pulsating beats of EDM—a sound that felt both familiar and thrillingly new. That song was “One Thing Right” by Marshmello and Kane Brown. Its infectious rhythm and heartfelt lyrics about finding love amidst personal flaws struck a chord, reminding me of the power of music to capture universal human experiences. This article dives into the story behind this genre-blending hit, exploring its creation, impact, and enduring appeal.

About The Composition

• Title: One Thing Right
• Composers: Marshmello, Kane Brown, Jesse Frasure, Josh Hoge, Matt McGinn
• Release Date: June 21, 2019
• Album/Opus/Collection: Non-album single (with remix EPs released in 2019)
• Genre: EDM, Country, Pop Punk

Background

“One Thing Right” emerged from an unexpected collaboration between American EDM producer Marshmello, known for his electronic anthems like “Happier,” and country star Kane Brown, whose soulful voice had already made waves in the country music scene. Released on June 21, 2019, the song was a bold experiment in genre fusion, blending EDM’s trap-tinged beats with country’s twangy vocals and banjo flourishes, accented by pop punk elements. According to Brown, the song was “kind of the opposite” of Marshmello’s “Happier,” shifting from heartbreak to a celebration of love’s redemptive power. The lyrical narrative centers on a flawed man—someone who lies, steals, and courts trouble—but who finds salvation in a love he manages not to ruin.

The song’s inception was marked by social media buzz, with both artists teasing its release on June 17, 2019. It quickly gained traction, peaking at number one on Billboard’s US Hot Country Songs chart on October 12, 2019, marking Brown’s third chart-topper and Marshmello’s first. By March 2020, it had sold 273,000 copies in the US, and on December 7, 2023, it was certified quadruple platinum by the RIAA for over four million units in combined sales and streaming. Initially received as a fresh take on cross-genre collaboration, the song solidified Marshmello’s versatility and Brown’s ability to bridge country with mainstream pop, cementing its place as a standout in both artists’ repertoires.

Musical Style

“One Thing Right” is a masterclass in genre fusion, weaving EDM’s pulsating basslines and trap-inspired beats with country’s signature banjo riffs and emotive vocal delivery. The song’s structure follows a pop-friendly verse-chorus format, with a driving tempo that maintains energy while allowing Brown’s vocals to shine. The instrumentation is layered, featuring electronic synths, acoustic banjo, and subtle pop punk guitar riffs, creating a sound that’s both danceable and introspective.

Marshmello’s production employs dynamic drops and builds, typical of EDM, but tempers them with organic country elements, ensuring the song appeals to fans of both genres. The use of twangy vocals and banjo adds authenticity to the country influence, while the trap-tinged beat injects a modern edge. This blend creates a unique sonic identity, making the song feel like a party anthem with a heartfelt core. The production’s polish and accessibility amplify its emotional impact, inviting listeners to both dance and reflect.

Lyrics

The lyrics of “One Thing Right” tell a story of redemption through love. The protagonist is a self-admitted rogue, confessing, “I’ve cheated and I’ve lied / I’ve broke hearts and I’ve tried / To do wrong my whole life.” Yet, the chorus celebrates the one thing he’s managed to preserve: “I got one thing right / With you by my side.” The theme of finding grace despite personal failings resonates universally, reflecting the human struggle to rise above flaws through meaningful connections.

The lyrics’ simplicity enhances their sincerity, with Brown’s soulful delivery adding depth to lines like “You’re the one thing I can’t lose.” The interplay between the upbeat music and the confessional tone creates a compelling contrast, underscoring the idea that love can be a beacon even in chaos. The narrative aligns with country music’s tradition of storytelling, while the EDM backdrop gives it a contemporary twist, making the themes accessible to a broad audience.

Performance History

Since its release, “One Thing Right” has been a staple in both Marshmello’s high-energy DJ sets and Kane Brown’s country concerts, showcasing its versatility. The music video, launched on July 19, 2019, amplified its reach, featuring cinematic visuals that complement the song’s emotional narrative. The song’s chart success, including its number one position on the US Hot Country Songs chart and a modest peak at number 36 on the Billboard Hot 100, reflects its widespread appeal.

Notable performances include its inclusion in Brown’s live shows, where the song’s hybrid sound energizes crowds, and Marshmello’s festival sets, where it stands out as a crossover highlight. Two remix EPs released in 2019, featuring contributions from artists like Firebeatz, Duke & Jones, and Koni, further extended its presence in electronic music circles, with versions like the Late Night remix by Marshmello emphasizing its club-friendly potential. The song’s sustained popularity on streaming platforms and radio underscores its staying power in the modern music landscape.

Cultural Impact

“One Thing Right” broke new ground by bridging EDM and country, two genres rarely combined before 2019. Its success paved the way for further cross-genre experiments, influencing artists to explore hybrid sounds in pop, country, and electronic music. The song’s relatable themes of redemption and love resonated with listeners, making it a go-to track for road trips, parties, and personal reflection. Its presence in media, from radio to streaming playlists, helped normalize genre-blending in mainstream music.

Beyond music, the song’s message of finding something good amidst chaos struck a chord during turbulent times, offering a hopeful narrative. Its quadruple platinum certification reflects its cultural footprint, as millions connected with its universal story. The collaboration also highlighted the power of unlikely partnerships, showcasing how artists from different worlds can create something fresh and impactful.

Legacy

The legacy of “One Thing Right” lies in its role as a trailblazer for genre fusion and its timeless message of redemption. It remains a testament to Marshmello and Kane Brown’s willingness to take risks, proving that music can transcend boundaries when rooted in authenticity. The song continues to inspire artists to experiment with cross-genre sounds and resonates with audiences who see their own struggles and triumphs in its lyrics. Its enduring presence on playlists and in live performances speaks to its ability to connect across generations and musical tastes.

Conclusion

“One Thing Right” is more than a chart-topping hit—it’s a celebration of love’s power to redeem even the most flawed among us. Its blend of EDM, country, and pop punk creates a sound that’s both innovative and deeply human, inviting listeners to dance, reflect, and feel. Personally, this song reminds me of those Tennessee drives, where music felt like a companion through life’s highs and lows. I encourage readers to explore “One Thing Right” through its original recording or the vibrant music video on YouTube. For a fresh take, check out the Late Night remix by Marshmello for a club-ready spin. Dive into this anthem and discover the one thing it gets so right.

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