Carly Pearce’s third album 29: Written in Stone was released on September 17, 2021, and was nominated for the CMA Album of the Year award. The songs within the album encapsulate all stages a girl goes through during a breakup. From solemn heartbreak to confident acceptance, Carly Pearce, in every aspect, embodies a heartbroken woman.
The song “What He Didn’t Do,” co-written with Ashley Gorley and Emily Shackelton, is sung with a soft sadness as Pearce reflects on the end of a relationship. Pearce focuses on the details that eventually caused the breakup, singing: “But I’ll tell you what he didn’t do // Treat me right, put me first // Be a man of his word // Stay home ‘cause he wanted to // Always fight for me love // Hold on tight like it’s something // That he couldn’t stand to lose.” The lyrics capture a quiet strength that balances heartbreak and dignity. Lines such as “The devil’s in the details // I won’t tell the hell that he put me through” and “So I’ma take the high road // Even though we both know // I could run him out of this town,” showcase her decision to be above pettiness and bitterness while still being honest about her pain. Hearing those words felt like a reminder that even when someone causes hurt, it can be more powerful and healthy to move forward rather than reminisce on the damage that was caused.
On the other side of things, “Next Girl,” co-written with Shane McAnally and Josh Osborne, is a confident, catchy song about a situation that many women can relate to. The song is one woman giving advice to the new girl her ex is with, referring to her as the “next girl.” Pearce warns: “Hey next girl, you don’t know me // I’m just the one he says went crazy on him // That’s just what he does.” The song gives off a playful and cautionary tone, explaining the predictable charm of an unreliable man, singing lines like “He knows how to say all the right things // Knows how to get you out outta that dress // Knows how to make you think you’re the best thing // But I know what happens next, girl.” It’s the kind of situation where someone is so perfect and you think you’re in love, but the pattern of their actions eventually shows itself. Pearce delivers the advice with wit and grace, almost like a friend pulling you aside to share her lesson in learning the hard way.
While “What He Didn’t Do” leans into the heartbreak side of a breakup, “Next Girl” embraces the power in being wronged, showcasing Pearce’s ability to deliver honesty and confidence within the same breakup album.
Together, the songs remind me that heartbreak can leave behind sadness and strength, and that lessons from the past can become wisdom and warnings worth sharing.
