Younger Me

Album: Skeletons Deluxe (2021)
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Songfacts®:

  • TJ Osborne publicly announced he is gay in an interview with Time dated February 3, 2021. Osborne co-wrote this emotional song with his brother and duo partner John, and with the Nashville singer-songwriter Kendell Marvel (George Strait's "Twang," Chris Stapleton's "Either Way") after seeing the response to his decision to come out.
  • The song is a gentle anthem of hope where Osbourne reflects on his childhood pain.

    Yeah younger me
    Overthinking losing sleep at night
    Contemplating if it's worth the fight


    Before learning to accept his identity.

    Younger me
    You got me where I am today
    Got a few things right along the way


    When Osborne publicly acknowledged his sexual orientation, he became the first openly gay country artist signed to a major label.
  • John Osborne produced the song and plays nearly every instrument. His wife, singer-songwriter Lucie Silvas, sings background vocals.
  • The black-and-white video shows Brothers Osborne performing the song in front of the Tennessee State Capitol Building in Nashville during the 2021 "Can't Cancel Pride" event broadcast by iHeartRadio.
  • Brothers Osborne performed "Younger Me" at the 2021 CMA Awards. Before starting the song, TJ Osborne spoke about his personal journey. "For many years I would watch this show year after year," the singer shared, perched on a stool. "I dreamed of being up here on this stage. There were so many things that were hurdles for me. I always felt, truthfully felt like it would never be possible because of my sexuality... to be here. And I wish my younger me could see me now."

    Earlier in the evening, CMA named Brothers Osborne their 2021 CMA Duo of the Year. After the ceremony, TJ Osborne said their win proved that all the support he received after coming out as gay was genuine.
  • "Younger Me" won for Best Country Duo/Group Performance at the Grammy Awards in 2022. Brothers Osborne closed out the ceremony with a performance of "Dead Man's Curve."

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