Without You by Betty Reed: Review

by Gabe Finch August 22, 2022

August 22, 2022

Without You by Betty Reed: Review

“The road to success is paved with doubters and haters,” said Matshona Dhliwayo. At some point in our lives, we have all experienced being misunderstood, questioned, ripped down, and cast away. When it comes from those who should be on our side but are actually trying to tear us down, it hurts much more. Having experienced it firsthand in her life, the Nashville-based musician Betty Reed has transformed her break-free journey into the banger “Without You”, her most recent single.

Leaving aside the theme for a second, the record is extremely powerful sonically. It contains some elements of pop, some of rock, and even a little bit of punk woven into its fabric. The soundtrack’s backbone is a blend of hammering rhythms and euphoric guitar melodies that hold our attention securely. My favorite section is the bridge, where all the instruments are withdrawn except for an acoustic guitar, so that the listeners can appreciate Reed’s beautiful voice closely. Her vocal performance is brimming with ferocity and energy, just itching to burst forth in full force. She’s ready to kick down any doors or tear down any walls in her way.

Reed’s musical tastes range from pop to rock, alternative, punk, and many more, influenced by her parents from an early age. In addition to “Without You,” she has recorded two other songs with Nashville producer/guitarist Evan Redwine. The other two are set to arrive in the second half of 2022. Let’s keep an eye out for them!