Caroline Parke delivers a joyful & gritty ode to rural life with “That’s Living”
Caroline Parke’s That’s Living feels like a sun-soaked drive down a gravel road, windows rolled down, dust swirling in the rearview, and the scent of fresh-cut hay in the air. It’s a country-folk gem that celebrates the beauty, grit, and resilience of rural life, told through the voice of someone who’s lived every word she’s singing.
Hailing from Lloydminster, Alberta, Parke’s artistry has always been steeped in authenticity, but here she taps into something particularly magnetic. The track’s instrumentation bursts to life immediately while twangy guitars strum with an easy confidence, drums keep a steady, toe-tapping pulse, and a spirited violin dances through the arrangement like a trusted old friend. It’s the kind of musical backdrop that feels both timeless and invigorating, a perfect fit for the song’s wide open country ethos.
There’s a spark in her delivery that’s equal parts joy and grit. She sings not as an observer, but as someone who’s weathered the storms and still finds beauty in the simple rhythms of the land. There’s a clarity to her tone, but also a warm rasp that adds a welcome touch of earthiness. When she hits the chorus, it’s a burst of life, catchy enough to hum after one listen, but full of substance.
The song never feels forced or overly polished; instead, it embraces the organic imperfections that make roots music so enduring. The violin flourishes in particular are worth noting as they weave in and out of the verses, sometimes carrying the melody, but always adding an extra emotional punch. It’s a small touch, but it’s the kind of detail that elevates the track beyond standard country fare.
Lyrically, That’s Living leans into the joys and challenges of rural living without romanticizing it to the point of cliché. There’s a respect for the work, the weather, and the way of life that can only come from someone who’s truly lived it. Her songwriting paints pictures you can see, hear, and smell, almost as if there’s a music video looming in your head!
It’s the kind of song that makes you want to grab a cold drink, gather your friends, and sing along until the stars come out. We think you should do just that, so please, go ahead and click those links below to give this song a spin and of course to follow along for more.
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