When Old Dominion entered the studio for their latest album, Barbara, the creative energy felt off. “That was a difficult session for me personally,” admits lead singer Matthew Ramsey. Despite working through several tracks, the band couldn’t find their groove—except for one.(“That was a difficult session for me personally. I wasn’t sure about any of the songs except for ‘Making Good Time’”)
That breakthrough came when Trevor Rosen picked up his daughter’s Baby Taylor guitar and strummed out the riff that became “Making Good Time.” The catchy spark arrived late in the session—and transformed the atmosphere. “It didn’t feel great, except that song might have been one of the last ones of the session, and we finally kind of fell into a groove.”m
Ramsey also notes a relatable songwriting challenge: “There’s at least one song every record that I’m going, ‘Why do we put so many damn words in the song?’” His comment reflects the band’s playful frustration with their own creative instincts—even when under pressure.
Making Good Time ultimately became the leading light on Barbara, setting the tone for an album that balances vulnerability, wit, and authenticity.
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