If You Go Down (I'm Goin' Down, Too) — Kelsea Ballerini

Title: If You Go Down (I'm Goin' Down, Too)

Artist: Kelsea Ballerini

Year: 2023

Composers: Julian Bunetta, Kelsea Ballerini, and Shane McAnally

Genre: Country Pop

This song addresses an unbreakable bond between friends, notable through the lyrics. Following anti-LGBTQ+ rights legislation in Tennessee, Ballerini performed this song at 2023's Country Music Awards. The timing of the performance, paired with the Drag Queens' inclusion, is a nod to the injustice occurring in politics. Because the song is repetitive and catchy, the concept of the bond of sisterhood is felt by listeners. The lyrics are also direct, so there is nothing left to question about the extent to which the friends care for one another.

Additionally, Ballerini outwardly protested against gun violence at another point during this award ceremony. She referenced her own experience with gun violence as well as the surmounting number of gun shootings in 2023 alone. Through her music, Ballerini aims to incite meaningful social change.

Connection to Playlist

As a connection to Gold, this selection highlights the power of friendship. In standing united, we support one another even when those in power aim to remove our rights and destroy us.

Resources

Genius, If You Go Down (I'm Goin' Down, Too) - Lyrics, https://genius.com/Kelsea-ballerini-if-you-go-down-im-goin-down-too-lyrics.

Kelsea Ballerini, If You Go Down (I'm Goin' Down, Too), https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CwJDLeCsVb0.

Now This, Kelsea Ballerini Calls Out Gun Violence, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nsinz5uvhs4.