About the Song
Midland, the Texas trio known for reviving the smooth, retro sound of classic ’80s country, made a bold entrance onto the scene with their breakout hit “Drinkin’ Problem.” Released in 2017 as the lead single from their debut album On the Rocks, this track immediately set them apart—not just for its throwback style, but for its polished storytelling and irresistible blend of melancholy and charm. With its steel guitar, mellow tempo, and rich vocal harmonies, “Drinkin’ Problem” feels like it was pulled straight from the jukebox of a dusty roadside bar.
At first glance, the song’s title might suggest a rowdy drinking anthem, but what Midland delivers is something more nuanced. It’s not a celebration of hard living, but rather a portrayal of a man who finds solace at the bottom of a glass—not because he’s lost control, but because he prefers to stay in a world of memory and blurred edges. The brilliance of the track lies in its ambiguity. The narrator insists he doesn’t have a problem—he has it “figured out.” Yet the mood of the music, the wistful steel guitar, and the slow-burning melody tell a more complicated story.
Musically, “Drinkin’ Problem” is a masterclass in restraint and atmosphere. The production is clean but drenched in retro flair—lush steel, steady rhythm, and a vocal delivery that’s both silky and sorrowful. Lead singer Mark Wystrach brings an effortless charisma to the track, channeling the smooth stylings of George Strait and Gary Stewart, while the harmonies from Jess Carson and Cameron Duddy add a rich, layered depth that echoes classic country duos and trios.
What makes this song so memorable is its ability to feel nostalgic without sounding dated. It’s rooted in the aesthetics of traditional country but polished with a modern sensibility. In a time when mainstream country leaned heavily into pop and rock influences, “Drinkin’ Problem” was a refreshing return to form—earning critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including a Grammy nod for Best Country Song.
In the end, “Drinkin’ Problem” isn’t just a song—it’s a statement. It introduced Midland as torchbearers of classic country style in a modern world, blending heartbreak, melody, and vintage swagger into one unforgettable package. It’s the kind of track that plays just as well through a truck radio on a lonely night as it does echoing across a crowded dancehall floor.