Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood’s duet, “I’m Gonna Love You,” debuted at No. 13 on the Hot Country Songs chart, bringing a classic yet unconventional love song to the genre. Crafted over eight years, this duet pairs a timeless sentiment with an intricate, genre-blending composition that defies typical song structure and showcases the unique talents of both country stars.
Johnson describes “I’m Gonna Love You” as a blend of several styles: “It’s big, like a pop song. It kind of feels like a blues song, but we sing it like a gospel song.” The track alternates between 3/4 and 4/4 time, making it a technically complex love ballad where each verse flows seamlessly into what feels like a chorus but is technically a bridge. This subtle yet inventive structure, crafted by songwriters Chris Stevens, Kelly Archer, and Travis Denning, creates a layered sound that elevates the song’s lyrical themes of steadfast love.
Originally conceived in 2016, the song took years to reach the public. Denning recorded an early demo, which eventually reached Johnson in 2018. Although Johnson loved the song, it took nearly five years to secure it, as Denning delayed its release while focusing on his own career. Johnson saw an ideal duet partner in Underwood after meeting her at the 2022 CMT Music Awards. When she agreed, the two came together in a studio session that Johnson described as “real magic,” where their vocal chemistry brought the track to life in a single take.
The song’s classic feel was heightened by Vince Gill’s soulful, melodic guitar solo, which added an emotional depth akin to his style on iconic ballads. Underwood even selected a lower vocal key, revealing a new, sultry quality in her voice that Johnson compared to Aretha Franklin’s range. The duo’s connection during the session resulted in a near-final cut from one single performance.
“I’m Gonna Love You” was initially held back from Johnson’s Leather album to align with Underwood’s schedule, finally making its way to fans in September ahead of the November release of Leather Deluxe. Johnson is thrilled with its reception, seeing it as a song worth the wait. “I’ve been chomping at the bit for this one,” he says.
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