Country singer Ashley Cooke recently released her debut album, “Shot in the Dark,” and one of the standout tracks on the record is “Mean Girl,” featuring Grammy-winning vocalist Colbie Caillat. Contrary to its title, the song is not about being mean, but rather, it comes from a place of compassion as Cooke reaches out to help another girl who is now dating her ex-boyfriend.
In the chorus of “Mean Girl,” Cooke sings, “This ain’t me being mean, girl,” emphasizing her intention to offer guidance and support. She warns the new flame of her former partner, adding, “When he says you’re the only one, take it from me / Yeah, it’s just another thing that he doesn’t mean, girl.” The inspiration for the song came when Cooke’s producer informed her about her ex-boyfriend’s new relationship. Having experienced a challenging past with her ex, Cooke felt the desire to share valuable insights and protect the new girlfriend from heartache.
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The song takes on a deeply personal and authentic tone, turning into a heartfelt letter to the new girlfriend, offering understanding and compassion. Cooke sees “Mean Girl” as a genuine Nashville story, one that reflects real-life experiences and emotions.
What made the collaboration even more special for Cooke was the opportunity to sing the song alongside Colbie Caillat, who plays the role of the “new girl” in the second verse. Cooke has admired Caillat since she was young, captivated by her voice and musical talent. With people often comparing Cooke’s voice to Caillat’s, having the chance to work with her idol was a dream come true.
As Cooke’s music career evolves, she remains focused on growth, both as an artist and as an individual. Her experiences in past relationships have taught her valuable lessons about self-worth and understanding one’s value. While she has happily moved on with someone new, she is determined to continue building her musical journey.
“Mean Girl” represents a beautiful blend of heartfelt emotions and musical talent, showcasing Ashley Cooke’s depth as an artist. With the support of Colbie Caillat and her fans, Cooke’s future in the music industry looks bright as she aims to share more meaningful and authentic stories through her music.