Album: Living Hard

Introduction
"Living Hard" is the seventh studio album by American c and w artist Gary Allan, released on October 23, 2007, by MCA Nashville. The album debuted at number 3 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and number 7 on the Billboard 200. Produced by Mark Wright and Gary Allan, the album includes a mix of country ballads and upbeat tracks that display Allan's signature raspy voice and edgy design, while likewise diving into themes of love, loss, and durability.

Background and Production
Gary Allan's musical journey began in the 1990s with his debut album "Used Heart for Sale", which made him a dedicated fanbase. Throughout the years, Allan continued to make waves in the c and w scene with his psychological and heartfelt tunes. By the time "Living Hard" was launched in 2007, Allan had currently skilled considerable individual obstacles, including the awful death of his wife, which sustained the raw emotion common throughout the album.

"Living Hard" was produced by Mark Wright and Gary Allan, marking Allan's 3rd collaboration with Wright, who also co-produced the albums "Tough All Over" and "See If I Care". Recording took place at Ocean Way Studios in Nashville with a few of the market's leading musicians contributing their talents to the album.

Songs and Reception
"Living Hard" generated 3 songs: "Watching Airplanes", "Learning How to Bend", and "She's So California". "Watching Airplanes", written by Jim Beavers and Jonathan Singleton, was the album's lead single and reached second on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. The song resonated with listeners as it showcased Allan's capability to convey emotional depth as he sings about yearning and managing heartbreak.

"Learning How to Bend", composed by Gary Allan, Matt Warren, and James LeBlanc, was released as the 2nd single and arrived 20 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. This susceptible ballad speaks with the struggles and compromises that come with lasting relationships. The 3rd single, "She's So California", co-written by Allan, Jaime Hanna, and Jon Randall, is an upbeat and carefree tribute to a California girl who takes the heart of the protagonist.

The album got crucial praise from music critics. Customers applauded Allan's signature noise and the emotional depth of his lyrics. They likewise noted his singing expertise, which includes authenticity to the stories he tells through his tunes.

Album Themes and Style
"Living Hard" is a reflection of Allan's life experiences, integrating styles of love, loss, and personal growth. The album's title not only commemorates his rugged and unrelenting disposition but likewise mentions the obstacles he dealt with while developing the music, including the consequences of his wife's death and his continuous touring schedule.

Gary Allan's style mixes standard country with a modern-day edge-- his raspy voice and refreshingly sincere lyrics make him stand out from the modern c and w scene. The album features ballads, such as "Learning How to Bend" and "Yesterday's Rain", which display Allan's ability to stimulate strong emotions, while positive tracks like "She's So California" and "Like It's a Bad Thing" show his versatility as an artist.

Conclusion
"Living Hard" solidifies Gary Allan's status as an influential figure in the world of country music. The album stands as a testament to the power of resilience, as Allan pours his heart and soul into each track, producing an emotional and genuine listening experience for fans. More than a years after its release, "Living Hard" stays a powerful and classic work that continues to resonate with those who appreciate truthful, heartfelt music.