by: Bee Delores
Last Updated: November 12, 2024
7 min read
7 min read
By continuing to use this website you agree to our terms and conditions . If you don't agree with our terms and conditions, you are not permitted to continue using this website.
Country music fans, rejoice! Cody Johnson and Carrie Underwood have taken the industry by surprise with a duet that brings back a touch of old-school recording magic. Their new track, “I’m Gonna Love You,” is a collaboration that not only combines their powerful voices but also breaks industry norms by recording live and in the studio together.
In a world where busy schedules, high technology, and tight timelines often dictate that artists record separately, their approach is a refreshing and bold reminder of authentic, live music-making. So, what makes this duet so special?
Johnson and Underwood’s decision to record together, in the same studio, as a live take, is nearly unheard of in today’s music scene.
Let’s take a closer look at how these two stars managed to pull off the seemingly impossible, capturing a moment of music that’s as raw and organic as it is powerful .
Recording together in the same studio might seem like the norm for duet recordings, but it’s actually a rarity in today’s fast-paced music world. Technology has advanced to a point where artists can record their parts thousands of miles apart and still create a cohesive track.
Schedules for high-profile musicians like Johnson and Underwood are tightly packed with tours, shows, and other commitments, so most collaborations are done remotely. Johnson, however, has a different approach.
Known for being extremely “hands-on,” he prefers to be involved in every detail of his music production. Speaking to Kelleigh Bannen on Today’s Country Radio , Johnson explained his process, saying, “I don’t miss a beat in the studio… I’m very, very, very hands-in-the-mud on this stuff.
Like, I have my fingers in all that stuff.” For Johnson, it wasn’t just about recording a duet; it was about creating a true musical experience with Underwood, one that required both of them to be in the same space, at the same time.
His dedication to this collaboration and the value he places on authenticity led him to make time to be physically present when Underwood was recording her part, a rarity that resulted in something unforgettable.
Initially, Johnson had already laid down his vocals for “I’m Gonna Love You,” and Underwood came in to add her part. However, as they listened back, both singers felt that something was missing.
Johnson describes a moment of reflection with Underwood where he notices a look of uncertainty on her face. “She didn’t look disappointed, but there was something,” he recalls. “I asked her, ‘What’s wrong? What are you not liking?’ Because I didn’t feel that spark either. It didn’t have the boom.”
It was at this moment that Underwood suggested a rare approach: recording it live, side by side. Johnson immediately agreed, and what followed was a defining moment for both artists.
They set up on opposite sides of the studio glass, looking at each other as they performed the song in one continuous take. The final recording, which fans hear on the track, is a single live take – raw, unedited, and beautifully authentic.
“That’s what you’re hearing is one take, live,” Johnson confirms. “I swear to God.”
The decision to record live in the studio opened the door to a more organic and heartfelt performance. Recording live captures not just the sound but also the emotion of the moment, something that’s often polished away in multiple takes and edited tracks.
For Johnson and Underwood, this meant that they could truly connect with each other’s voices and energy in real time. Johnson describes this experience as “singing in church,” a testament to the purity and soulfulness that a live duet can bring.
The two stars fed off each other’s energy, resulting in subtle, unplanned moments that would have been impossible to replicate separately. For example, the humming heard in the bridge of the song was an entirely impromptu addition, a natural moment that came about as they connected over the music.
This duet serves as a reminder of the power and magic of live, in-person collaboration. For fans of country music, hearing Johnson and Underwood perform together in this way is a refreshing break from heavily produced studio tracks that dominate the industry today.
Their duet captures a simplicity and rawness that feels reminiscent of classic country music. In many ways, “I’m Gonna Love You” is a statement against the industry norms, emphasizing the importance of artistry and real human connection.
It shows that, despite the convenience technology offers, nothing can replace the power of being physically present and sharing the same space when making music. This approach has not only made the duet stand out but has also deepened its emotional impact on listeners, who can feel the sincerity and passion in every note.
Element | Description |
---|---|
Live Studio Recording | Johnson and Underwood recorded the song live in the studio, a rarity in the modern music industry where artists often record parts separately. |
Single Take | The version fans hear is from a single take, preserving the raw energy and emotion of their live duet. |
Unplanned Moments | Organic, impromptu moments like the humming bridge occurred naturally, adding authenticity to the recording. |
Artist Connection | The chemistry between Johnson and Underwood is evident, as they performed together on opposite sides of the studio glass, allowing for real-time interaction. |
Old-School Approach | Johnson’s “hands-in-the-mud” philosophy reflects a commitment to an authentic recording process that prioritizes collaboration and artistry over convenience. |
Fan Response | Fans have reacted positively to the live-recorded track, appreciating the raw, unedited sound that’s rare in modern recordings. |
Lover of hiking, biking, horror movies, cats and camping. Writer at Wide Open Country, Holler and Nashville Gab.
We appreciate you taking the time to share your feedback about this page with us.
Whether it's praise for something good, or ideas to improve something that
isn't quite right, we're excited to hear from you.