Review: "All The Advice (I Didn't Ask For)" - Heather Youmans
- Hanna Hathaway
- May 30
- 2 min read
Heather Youmans challenges the dynamic of melodic storytelling by embodying the struggles of her triumphant mother, troubled by 2 generations of abandonment trauma. Her mother was destined to “break the cycle," despite having “every reason” to hate her own maternal upbringing that followed in the footsteps of the even prior generation. Youmans layers a fragile conversation between generations that allows her to empathize with her own mother. Singing in her mother’s shoes, she recognizes “'cause where you came from you were on your own/ and nobody taught you how to be a mom,” forgiving her grandmother for unintentionally repeating negative family history. She reiterates this as she sings with her mother’s voice to her grandmother, acknowledging “the same thing happened to you,” in terms of absent parenting or lack of a maternal figure. Altogether, Youmans’ new release reveals the intricacy of mother-daughter relationships in a way that ponders the merit of generational trauma.
Timid electric strings and ringing vocals represent frail memories and truths within the story of this song. Exuding heavy notes through an unwavering voice, Youmans' cries guide the chord progression of the strings to express cohesiveness after years of uncertainty and inconsistency. She uses a similar tone to emphasize the importance of certain phrases as a ballad-like piano melody cushions her voice. Glossy symbols introduce change of pace and lyricism which adds to the variety, timing, and texture of the track. A relaxed drum pattern offers serenity alongside sharp lyrics that shift with blame and closure. The drums pick up near the end of the track, followed by a flicker of dainty piano to symbolize the delicacy of family, change, and feelings.
Singer/songwriter, vocalist, and theatrical performer, Heather Youmans, works from Los Angeles to spread optimism starting with her 2021 project, “Worth It”. Some of her music is featured in Forbes, the LA Times, and the movie “Marley and Me 2”. She sang the national anthem for 20,000 fans at Staples Center on New Year’s Eve, and appeared on FOX’s show “I Can See Your Voice”. She’s most influenced by artists like Sheryl Crow and Kelly Clarkson, but specifically notes that she was inspired by Adele when working on “All The Advice (I Didn’t Ask For)”. Heather presents with promising potential considering the range of her talent, commitment to honest music, and ability to perform. To learn more about Heather Youmans, visit her socials linked below!
Written By Hanna Hathaway
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