Morgan Wallen’s latest album, I’m the Problem, released on May 16, 2025, has sparked a whirlwind of reactions across the internet. While some critics have been quick to dismiss the album, citing repetitive lyrics, a complete transition to trap beats, controversial themes such as “kiss her in front of you,” and a lengthy album. The overwhelming support from many fans and impressive streaming numbers tell a different story.
Morgan is a superstar, and everyone expected only an amazing album, based on his past releases becoming instant classics. All his recent controversies have added to this disparity in what is expected vs what he released. All his pre-release songs, except maybe 1 or 2, were downloaded by me right away. With many taking multiple listens to grow on me and vibe with. For example, “smile,” or “just in case.” Smile was slow and just in case a more upbeat song, but give the lyrics a good listen once or twice more, and I was hooked.
The Criticism
I get that his country “sound” has changed, but what did we expect? Be so for real. This is the man who released “Thinkin’ Bout Me,” “Love Somebody,” “I Had Some Help,” “Cowgirls,” and of course “Last Night” which went insanely viral. Were we really expecting not to hear this trap beat sound that has been bringing him success?
Album length was also a criticism even from my producer friends, and I can agree a couple shorter songs could’ve been cut so easily. But honestly it was up to Morgan and even though he’ll chuckle about it, that’s the album he wanted to put out, and I don’t hate it. There are so many songs I may of glossed over.
Outside of the prereleases, with which I said I saved many to my liked songs. On the first album listen I automatically saved 4 songs “I Got Better,” “Dark Til Daylight,” “What I Want,” and “Kiss Her In Front of You.”
On the second and third listen I saved “Eyes are Closed,”Skoal, Chevy, and Browning,” “20 Cigarettes,” and “Jack and Jill.”
So let me see, literally 8 new songs I saved. That is a ton! Then add that to 6 of the pre-releases I have saved. 14 for 37 is a solid run. Not just songs I liked… Songs I saved and actively listen to. That is not a miss.
Now, there have been dumber takes on why the album was “bad.”
Reviews from outlets like Slate have pointed out issues such as monotonous song structures, political pandering, and a lack of gender diversity in the album’s credits. For instance, songs like “Don’t We” and “Come Back as a Redneck” have been criticized for appealing to a specific political demographic, potentially alienating listeners. Let me be so for real, it is not.
Additionally, the album features only one female performer, Tate McRae, and a handful of female songwriters, which has been a point of contention for some. My response? Nobody cares.
I will admit, the Tate McRae feature could’ve been miles better; they sound so good together, but McRae’s voice was held back here.
The Positive Aspects
Despite the criticism, I’m the Problem has connected deeply with listeners, evidenced by its record-breaking streaming numbers on Spotify and projected #1 debut on the Billboard 200 with 450-500k units sold. Multiple tracks from the album have dominated the charts, with songs like “What I Want” featuring Tate McRae reaching the top spots on various platforms. This commercial success indicates that the music resonates with a broad audience, despite the naysayers.
Fan Reactions
On social media platforms like X, numerous fans have expressed their admiration for the album. One user, @LiamPaddyy, posted, “Morgan Wallen – I’m the problem album was so worth the wait. … every track is absolutely flawless” (X post). Another fan, @long, shared, “OK, Morgan Wallen’s ‘I’m The Problem’ album is good. Been playing it all morning” (X post). These sentiments are echoed by many who find the album relatable and emotionally impactful.
Conclusion
While I’m the Problem may not be perfect, the level of hate it has received is disproportionate to its actual quality. The album’s commercial success and the passionate support from fans demonstrate that Morgan Wallen’s music continues to strike a chord with many listeners. I would challenge you to listen to this whole album and not find a handful of songs you like. Its impossible. Rather than magnifying all of the negatives, perhaps it’s time to appreciate the album for what it is: a collection of songs that reflect the artist’s journey and resonate with his audience.
Final Verdict: 7.7/10
