Known for his songwriting's conservative leanings and his role at Baste Records, Wallin is often hailed as the counter-culture conservative counterpart to the mainstream producer Rick Rubin, with songwriting as his true forte.
Wallin had a landmark year in 2024, and has seamlessly blended his passion for music with his advocacy for traditional values, creating a niche that resonates deeply with a growing audience. His work with Baste Records, a label known for its "anti-woke" stance, has provided a platform for artists who feel marginalized by mainstream music trends.
One of the standout tracks of the year was Wallin's collaboration on "Hunter Got High" with Afroman, a song that humorously tackles current social issues that takes influence from Afroman's infamous 2000 track, "Because I Got High." Wallin's ability to craft lyrics that are both entertaining and thought-provoking has been pivotal in this track's success.
Another profound contribution came with "I Was Gonna Be" featuring Rachel Holt, a song that has not only dominated the iTunes country charts but has also stirred conversations with its pro-life message. With this track, Wallin's showcased his knack for storytelling, allowing listeners to connect emotionally with the narrative through Holt's compelling vocals.
Wallin's collaboration on "People Where I'm From" with Rachel Holt and Darryl Worley reflects a celebration of American identity and community, highlighting the nuances of small-town life with pride and authenticity. The song's success lies in its heartfelt lyrics that resonate with anyone who cherishes their roots.
"Fighter," co-written with Jon Kahn, dives deep into themes of resilience and personal struggle, embodying the spirit of those who stand firm in their beliefs and fight against the tide. The track takes heavy influence from President-elect Donald Trump's narrow brush with death after surviving an assassination attempt this summer. This song has become an anthem for those who feel they are in the cultural minority but choose to express their convictions through music.
Lastly, "Watered Down," featuring Chad Prather and John Rich, tackles the dilution of American culture and values, a theme Wallin has been vocal about. This track, with its robust country sound and sharp commentary, has struck a chord with those yearning for a return to what they see as core principles, wrapped in a melody that's hard to forget.
Wallin, through his work with Baste Records, has not only produced and written some of the year's most talked-about tracks but has also redefined what it means to be a songwriter in today's polarized cultural landscape. His approach, much like Rubin's transformative production style, brings out the essence of the artist but with a focus on lyrical storytelling that speaks to a specific audience. While Rubin might be known for his production genius, Wallin's bread and butter remains his ability to weave stories through song, capturing the hearts of those who feel their voices are often left out of the mainstream narrative.
In an industry where conformity can sometimes overshadow creativity, Chris Wallin continues to be a beacon for those who believe music should reflect the diversity of thought and the richness of American life, proving once again that Nashville is not just a city but a crucible where music and culture are continually redefined.
