In the wake of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, Tom MacDonald dropped a bombshell track, “You Missed,” a stark, unfiltered reaction that encapsulates the turmoil and polarization gripping the nation. Written, produced, and released immediately following the incident, MacDonald’s song is a testament to his ability to channel current events into his art with a speed and urgency that few can match.
From the very first bar, MacDonald’s lyrics are incendiary, addressing the contentious political landscape head-on. He opens with a scathing critique of progressivism, pointing out that its proponents of undermine fundamental American values and promote division. Lines like, “They burnin' the country down with their progressiveness / It started with changing what gender is,” set the tone for a track that pulls no punches.
The chorus, “Thank God the left can’t aim / Thank God the right don’t riot / Welcome to the home of the brave / Freedom ain’t afraid of violence / You wish he was dying,” is both provocative and reflective of the heated rhetoric that has become commonplace in today’s political discourse. MacDonald’s assertion that the left is celebrating the attempted assassination, juxtaposed with his relief that the attempt failed, underscores the deep-seated animosities that characterize the current era.
Musically, “You Missed” is quintessential Tom MacDonald – a hard-hitting beat that he produced himself, overlaid with his distinctive, gritty vocals. The production, mixed and mastered by Evan Morgan, complements MacDonald’s confrontational style, creating a track that is as sonically aggressive as its message. It is nice to hear the lack of drums on different parts, creating an atmosphere with crisp vocals on top.
The song’s raw energy is further amplified by the music video, which MacDonald shot the night before its release. The video’s stark, unadorned visuals mirror the song’s direct and unfiltered message, enhancing the overall impact of the track.
MacDonald’s ability to capture the intensity of the moment and translate it into his music is a testament to his skills as both a songwriter and a producer. In a time of unprecedented political tension, “You Missed” stands out as a bold and unapologetic commentary on the state of America.
