Crucial Track for September 11, 2025

"Smaller Acts" by Zach Bryan

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What is a song that feels like home to you?

Oddly enough, the first song that came to mind was "Smaller Acts" by Zach Bryan. I don't usually listen to his music, I have a few songs I listen to after coming across them while listening to folkier music. He has a really nice vibe in general. It's something about the acoustic guitar that reminds me of my dad mindlessly playing in the living room at random times- something my sister tends to do now too. The sounds of frogs and crickets remind me of my mom and her taking us hiking and camping- something I'll be forever sorry that I fell out of or didn't just say yes to, especially as I have gotten older. I also resonate with some of the lyrics, they remind me of my family and community and to me- home IS my family and community. While I do believe my home is also my childhood house in the suburbs of a smaller city I love so dearly, it's the people who make it a home. It's hard to grasp that now that I've moved into college, I likely will never live back there for a long period of time. That's something that hurts for me. "Northern Attitude" by Noah Kahan is another song that reminds me closely of home, especially deeply in the lyrics, but I figured I'd feature a new artist. This was my ode to my home! And here are the lyrics I love from "Smaller Acts";

"All the money in the world couldn't make her smile, she prefers things that are worthwhile. Like small towns, that old style and smaller acts."

"She'll only love you for you."