DRIVE ALONE BY CARSON FERRIS

I am navigating uncharted waters here, folks. Never have I once reviewed music for a literal child. While I feel this way around most of the local scene due to my advanced age, Carson is different. He’s 12.

Don’t let his age fool you, though. Like Aaron Carter (RIP), Lil Bow Wow, Cody Simpson*, Willow Smith (before she went emo), and every member of the Mickey Mouse Club who came before, Carson’s talent is eye-opening and jaw-dropping, but unlike many of these stars, it seems Carson has something to say rather than simply producing catchy pop songs that will haunt you for the rest of your days. And unlike every adult in every ‘80s movie ever made, I am going to listen to what he has to say. Because if there’s anything I’ve learned from those movies, it’s that the kids are almost always right.

“Drive Alone is a song about making hard decisions and having lots of people telling you that you should do this or that, and you just have to do what you know is best for you,” Carson explained in a recent presser. And while I said I would not be a typical adult and be open-minded regarding this bright young talent’s message, I do have a couple concerns.

For one, Carson has also explained that this song was inspired from listening to the GPS say, “Take the next left.” Now while I understand the power and importance of ignoring all of the voices that surround you and doing what’s best for you, I must say that you should probably listen to the GPS. Clearly, don’t be Michael Scott and drive into a pond (I’m not sure if you’ve watched The Office yet. Highly recommend if you haven’t.), but most of the time, GPS won’t steer you in the wrong direction.

Lastly, I think it’s been brought to everyone’s attention at this point, but I am still going to say it anyway. This kid is four years out from being able to drive. As a non-parent myself, I don’t want to overstep here, but the negligent parenting going on in this song is egregious. He’s 12! If this is a common parenting strategy here in the state of Utah, it would explain a lot of things while out driving in the snow.

Despite the concerns of Carson being able to reach the pedals, it's a great song, and he should be proud of it. 

*Fun Fact: Cody Simpson retired from his music career to compete in swimming, and as a former swimmer myself ("swammer"), I have to say it's one of the most impressive stories in the sport that doesn't get enough attention.