Kelsey Hart Looks to Cash In on New Radio Single ‘Love to Be That Guy’: ‘That Was a Standout’
Billboard's Makin' Tracks column looks at the writing and recording process behind Kelsey Hart's "Love to Be That Guy."
Curb recording artist Kelsey Hart, known for his songwriting prowess, is cashing in on his latest single "Love to Be That Guy." The hit track, penned by Taylor Phillips, Brad Clawson and Casey Brown, was crafted during a 2024 Tape Room Music writing retreat hosted by Ashley Gorley.
Upon hearing the song, Hart was immediately sold on the idea, travelling 40 miles round trip to record his part. The song took a unique turn when it was set in a bar rather than the usual romantic venues. This decision was made to add a sense of randomness to the narrative, as love stories often begin in unexpected places, not necessarily in neon-lit rooms.
The song's protagonist, the guy, checks for signs that the girl is alone before making a bold move. He has long odds, referred to as "long-shot lines" at a "one-to-10 scale," but he's determined. The girl is a "10-out-of-10 beauty," a slang term indicating she is perfect.
The song was recorded on September 17, 2024 at Curb Studio on Music Row, with producers Blake Bollinger and Jimmie Lee Sloas overseeing the session. The final product is a driving tempo love song that carries a strong acoustic guitar rhythm, complemented by a variety of musical layers and a prominent bass line.
Written by urgent.news from Billboard's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
