Troy Patterson Delivers a Smooth, Soulful Reflection on “It Cost To Be (Lately)”
It’s always a pleasure to revisit an artist whose music I’ve had the opportunity to experience and review over the years. When Troy Patterson and I last sat down for his Independent Artist Spotlight on Trackstarz, he was enjoying life as a newlywed. Fast-forward to today, and Troy has entered an entirely new chapter of life as a husband and father, following the birth of his son.
Having reviewed Troy’s music before, I’ve always recognized a certain level of maturity in his artistry. His music has consistently carried a sense of thoughtfulness and intention. However, there’s something about the authenticity that comes with becoming a father, and the emotions, responsibilities, and new perspectives that experience brings to a man’s pen, that is simply unmatched.
And on his latest single, “It Cost To Be (Lately),” I can’t help but hear that evolution. Troy delivers what I consider to be one of the smoothest and most eclectic records of the season.
Sonically, the record is a beautiful blend of laid-back hip-hop, soulful melodies, and an atmospheric soundscape that creates an almost therapeutic listening experience. The production is smooth without feeling stagnant, giving Troy plenty of room to navigate the instrumental with his relaxed, conversational delivery. There’s a natural chemistry between the beat and his vocals that makes the record feel effortless.
This is the type of song you put on during a brisk autumn day, as the leaves are blowing, you’re sipping your favorite cup of coffee, and you find yourself getting lost in a moment of reflection and thankfulness to God. It’s music that doesn’t demand your attention through aggressive drums or complicated lyrical gymnastics. Instead, it invites you into a mood and allows you to appreciate the beauty of the moment.
What I appreciate most about Troy’s approach is his ability to communicate with a sense of maturity without sacrificing the musical experience. There’s a reflective quality to his delivery that feels authentic, particularly when you consider the new season of life he’s navigating. The record carries a sense of perspective that comes from understanding that life, growth, and responsibility all come at a cost.
If there’s an area where the record could have been pushed further, perhaps a little more variation in the vocal arrangement would have added another layer of dimension. However, the consistency of the production and Troy’s delivery is also part of what makes the record so enjoyable. Sometimes, a song doesn’t need to do too much to accomplish exactly what it sets out to do.
“It Cost To Be (Lately)” is another reminder of why I’ve always appreciated Troy Patterson’s artistry. He continues to make music that feels intentional, relatable, and true to the season of life he’s experiencing.
And if you’re looking for something to add to your fall playlist, this is definitely one worth keeping in rotation. Grab your coffee, take in the changing leaves, and allow Troy Patterson to provide the soundtrack for a moment of gratitude and reflection.
You can steam “It Cost To Be (Lately)” and hear a full compliment of Troy’s music at his “Spotify for Artist” profile paged linked below.
