Welcome to The Wichitan’s song of the week! The first song is “Remember (Remix)” by Russ featuring Hailey Knox. The original version was released on Jan. 13, 2022, and the remix on Jan. 21. Russ came to fame around 2016, a year after two of his top hits “What They Want” and “Losin Control” were released on SoundCloud, and both quickly appeared on the Billboard Hot 100. Hailey Knox is a lesser-known, up-and-coming artist. With her voice, I doubt she will take long to skyrocket too.

The way Hailey ended up being featured on this track is a pretty cool story. Russ created an open verse challenge on TikTok where users can record their own lyrics over a karaoke snippet of the song. Hailey was one of many who created their own versions of “Remember,” and people loved it so much, Russ decided to collaborate with Hailey and release this remix. Russ has a great voice and does a good job of putting out really catchy tunes, and “Remember” is no exception. I really liked this song when it first came out, but the remix made it even better in my opinion. I think the addition of Hailey’s verse adds to the somber tone of the song.

“Remember” is a melancholy, nostalgic track that reflects on a past relationship, one that ended despite the love they had. In the original version, we only see this tale from Russ’ point of view, but this remix provides a different side of the same tale. They both reminisce on the happy moments, late nights, and talks of their future together.

Russ seems to focus on everything they had and how he wants to go back. But Hailey suggests that while she also loved the relationship, she remembers how he left, which has tainted the memories to the point where she doesn’t want to remember. My favorite lyric is during the bridge where they both sing:

“We promised that we’d never let this go/Look at us now we’re strangers.”

To me, this really highlights the pain memories can bring, especially in the aftermath of a break-up. We love to go back and remember all of the good times, the moments our cheeks hurt from smiling and laughing so much. But to go back and remember, you also have to face the reality of what happened and the fact that the person you shared these memories with, isn’t part of your life anymore. However, I don’t feel like this is a super depressing break-up anthem. To me, the song feels like a bittersweet, catchy, lyrically driven trip down memory lane.

Definitely give this song a listen, let us know what you think, and what songs have come out recently that you love!