Imagine this: 30 years ago, if somebody had whispered in my ear that one day I would be wholly enchanted by a folk-pop (or should I say country-pop?) tune that grew on me with each listen, I would have laughed at him, and of course, I wouldn’t believe that. “Dial Drunk” by Noah Kahan and Post Malone made me enter the previously described unbelievable scenario.
I, the young punk rocker, would throw a burst of punches at anybody who advocated folk and country music. But look at me right now: I enjoy listening to a folk-pop tune and writing a positive review. And I’m not proud of all the punches I’ve thrown in the name of someone I no longer know.
“Dial Drunk” by Noah Kahan feat. Post Malone is a soul-stirring track that deftly blends emotive lyricism with a melodic, folk-pop (country-pop) sound, creating an immersive listening experience. The song showcases Kahan’s distinctive voice, which carries a warm, earnest quality that feels comforting and evocative.
Overall, “Dial Drunk” is another testament to Noah Kahan’s ability to craft songs that resonate deeply with his audience. It’s a track that highlights his talents as a songwriter and performer and speaks to the universal human experience, making it relatable and memorable.
But let’s dive into the magic of the song and decompose its elements. Maybe I’ll tease you to hear more from Noah Kahan, find your next favorite song-soulmate, and perhaps even trigger your will to visit some of his concerts on Noah’s tour in 2024.
About the Music
Musically, the song features a rich acoustic arrangement that complements Kahan’s vocal delivery. The banjo work is particularly notable, providing a soothing and happy ambient yet dynamic backdrop that enhances the emotional depth of the song. The production is clean and uncluttered, allowing the natural beauty of the melody and lyrics to shine through.
I also like the drummer’s simple rhythm, which reminds me of some of my favorite punk rock tracks. Maybe that’s the spice in “Dial Drunk,” which teases my subconsciousness and resonates with memories of my teenage punk days.
About the “Dial Drunk” Lyrics
Noah Kahan’s song “Dial Drunk” is an emotional and thoughtful piece of music that discusses challenging personal issues, broken relationships, and how people sometimes harm themselves emotionally. The song’s words paint a clear picture that helps listeners understand themes like regret, dependence, and self-examination.
The song starts with a decisive moment where the singer admits he’s trying to forget someone during a rainy night, setting a sad mood. He says he’s calling someone while drunk, which introduces us to a series of honest statements about how he feels and the mistakes he’s making.
One of the critical parts of the song is how it honestly shows the singer’s inner struggles. The verses “I ain’t proud of all the punches that I’ve thrown / In the name of someone I no longer know / For the shame of being young, drunk, and alone” repeat through the song and talk about regret and recognizing his wrong actions. This could connect well with anyone who has faced similar tough times.
The song uses images like “Traffic lights and a transmitter radio” to show the singer’s loneliness and loss. These images help paint a picture of a person trying to find his way through life’s challenges, feeling abandoned.
“Dial Drunk” also explores how much the singer relies on someone else, even in crisis, as shown when he says, “I gave your name as my emergency phone call.” This moment and not getting a response add a layer of betrayal and desperation to the story.
The song keeps returning to the main chorus and bridge, which reflects how the singer keeps facing the same problems and feelings, emphasizing the ongoing struggle with personal demons and the desire for peace or an end to these issues.
And hearing the verse “I dial drunk, I’ll die a drunk, I’ll die for you” gives the song the tone of a love song. Through the music, he accepts his mistakes in the past; he stands entirely mentally defeated, possibly because of the same person he tries to call on the only call he has. He is so soulfully stripped and honest that he confesses his love to the one to whom he tries to get on the call and for whom he admits that he is ready to die. I love this lyrical resolution of the song.
The song lyrics can be found on Lyricfind.com.
The Vocals by Kahan and Malone
Noah and Malone’s voices sound enthusiastic and energetic, filled with a will to live. In a moment of raw, emotional revelation, the main protagonist’s anguish profoundly moves me as Noah voices it poignantly through his soul-stirring rendition. As he sings, “I dial drunk, I’ll die a drunk, I’ll die for you“, especially at the poignant 66-second mark, it feels as though his pain resonates within the very depths of my soul, echoing a heartbreaking truth that lingers long after the music fades. It’s a brilliant piece of art.
And, after bearing his soul in a moment of raw honesty, a wave of pure will for living crashes over him. It’s in this vulnerable aftermath that Noah and Malone’s voices burst forth with exploding energy, shouting, “Fuck that, sir, just let me call!” at 157 seconds. This feels like a powerful awakening from a dark, depressive haze, a decisive turning point where the protagonist chooses his path forward. Faced with a moment of crisis, the urgency of his call – a desperate plea for help – resonates deeply. This isn’t just any call; it’s to his will for living; it’s a call to his beloved. As both voices meld, they channel the protagonist’s intense emotions, his tumultuous shove into the police car. It’s a scene in this part of the song I envision, so vivid it sends shivers down my spine.
Who Are the Songwriters of “Dial Drunk”?
The songwriters are Austin Richard Post (Post Malone), Noah Kahan, and Noah Isaac Levine.
