- Bryon Harris
Barry Rock - 'I'm Hurtin'
Review by Daniel Deprè & Staff

“I’m Hurtin” opens up with a sporadic and intense drum fill that then kicks of the bundle of fun that is this song. This is the kind of track that jams, and it feels so good to rock out to its rhythms and positive energy. It is a classic bluesy rock song with a blues-rock blueprint of instruments, but the song also has this rebellious nature to it that gives it an awesome sense of attitude. Lots of the instrument performances sound like the musicians were having a blast recording and that really translates well into the songs message.
The lyrics seemingly contrast with the upbeat nature of the track. However, this is Barry Rock’s intention. He is singing about having your sad times turned into happy times and exudes confidence. He is reflecting on how when you’re hurting, you can turn to people in your life who you trust to get you out of a rut. “Then one day it happened, she came into my life, an angel with long hair, wearing blue jeans, is this a good sign? Cause it feels so right”. The chorus lyrics are sad and tragic. “I’m Hurtin, baby I’m Hurtin, and the pain inside my heart you put me through”. What is so interesting about this song though is how the music is creating such an upbeat and positive energy. Perhaps Barry Rock is making the point to let things like heartbreak and rejection go and have fun with life. Spend times with those who make your sad times happy.
The arrangement is rock steady and perfectly balanced. After the elongated and tasty intro drum fill, the song begins with a short piano solo which wonderfully sets up the bluesy influence mixed with the classic rock feel. The piano gets to do another fiery solo in the bridge of the song, which ends up being a call and response with the guitar. This back and forth is so much fun and the instruments communicate with one another effortlessly.
Barry Rock’s vocals are gentle and smooth. He sings with such expression and fluidity that it really inspires you as the listener to sing right along with him. “I’m Hurtin” is a endlessly fun song from start to finish and it’s the kind of song that would be a blast to experience live.
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About Barry Rock Barry Rock can best be described as a singer/songwriter that has you humming his melodies & lyrics, at first listen. Born and raised in NY, Barry’s Retro musical style was influenced by the best of them. Including The Beatles, Billy Joel, The Beach boys and the Cars to name a few. Barry’s goal is to continue writing and working with incredible musicians, & place music in TV and film. His music is a perfect match for Child based media. One listen & you will agree his songs have Disney written all over them!