Megan Moroney’s Songwriting Shines on Impressive Sophomore Album, ‘Am I Okay?’

A sparkly, shiny, honest, funny and elevated album that I can’t get enough of. Today, Megan Moroney released her sophomore studio album Am I Okay? This collection of breakup songs, tunes about loss, and upbeat songs about fun with friends, offers real depth that I hoped she’d deliver. It’s girly, feminine and fun, but also reflective and often downright sad. If you ask me, that’s a perfect combination.

After releasing her debut Lucky last year, Megan proved she’s a superstar, possessing an impressive knack for writing and a unique brand of country music. In a way that hasn’t been seen since Kacey Musgraves and Miranda Lambert first entered the mainstream, Am I Okay? feels incredibly elevated. This likely reflects the life she’s lived over the past year and her whirlwind career since her debut. Her southern, sassy writing style always resonates with me, and her twangy, gritty vocals deliver these songs straight from the heart.

Megan shared a statement on Instagram about the release: “There’s love and heartbreak and strength and loss and friendship, and I hope these songs find a home with you. From the day I released ‘Lucky,’ I was told over and over my sophomore album would be hardest to write. I thought that might be true until I did what I’ve always done… I felt deeply and unapologetically and wrote songs when my heart needed… ‘Am I Okay?’ feels more honest and vulnerable than anything I’ve released. It’s because you guys make me comfortable enough to do that. I can’t thank you enough for being on this journey with me. Songwriting and making music really does light up my soul, and I’m so grateful for each and every one of you.”

In the lead up to today, Megan released four songs: “No Caller ID,” “28th Of June,” “Indifferent,” and “Man On The Moon.”

It is true that sophomore albums often face high expectations, especially following an impressive debut like Megan’s. The thought is that it’s hard to replicate that “lightning in a bottle” moment. However, I’ve always believed that true talent can rise above these expectations. After multiple listens to Am I Okay?, I feel confident in saying she has not only delivered but created a more mature album while still covering a broad range of topics.

There’s a lot of heartbreak, reflecting the typical experience of being a 20-something woman. Perhaps it’s because we’re of a similar age and facing similar life phases, but Megan feels like one of those rare artists who doesn’t miss. Her unique perspective and writing style make her an important voice in country music for years to come. While not every song may resonate with everyone, the 12-song tracklist contains something for everyone, making it a winner.

Even if she’s not completely okay, as the album title suggests, Megan is the next big thing in country music—an artist with a lot to say and a special way of saying it that people need and want to hear.

The title track “Am I Okay?”, written by Megan along with Luke Laird and Jessie Jo Dillon, finds Megan getting over a breakup and “playing less Black Keys,” indicating she’s finally moving on. It’s super catchy and a fun way to start the record.

Today’s Country Radio on Apple Music Country featured an interview where Megan discussed not including the word “bed” in the song’s lyrics: “I just feel like sometimes you don’t have to say it. You knew what I was talking about.” This insight highlights how the best songwriters know when to say certain things and when to let listeners fill in the blanks.

“Miss Universe” is reminiscent of Kacey Musgraves’ Pageant Material era. Co-written with Liz Rose and AJ Pruis, Megan deals with heartache as her guy leaves her for another girl, though it hurts a little less knowing he left her for “Miss Universe.”

“I Know You” has quickly become a fan favorite, based on teasers. Written with Ben Williams, David “Messy” Mescon, and Jacob Kasher Hindlin, the song calls out an ex for attempting to deceive Megan, though she sees through his actions. Many listeners will likely relate to the narrative, making it a standout track.

“The Girls” celebrates female friendships essential to surviving life’s ups and downs. Collaborating with Ben Williams and the Carpenters, Megan pays tribute to the strong, kind women who support her. It’s a personal favorite, celebrating meaningful relationships.

“Heaven By Noon” is one of the saddest moments on the album. Co-written with Jessie Jo Dillon and Matt Jenkins, Megan mourns the loss of someone close, finding solace in the belief they’re “walking streets of gold” in Heaven. The song honors relatives lost in the 9/11 attacks.

“Hope You’re Happy” closes the album on a heartfelt note. Written with Luke Laird and Shane McAnally, it reflects Megan’s hope that an ex finds joy and fulfillment, despite their split.

Source: Instagram, YouTube