Bigger Mistakes Lyrics

Introduction

"Bigger Mistakes" by Mitchell Tenpenny is a reflective yet bold country track from his 2023 album *The 3rd*. In this song, Tenpenny addresses a past relationship, reminding his ex that, while their breakup may have seemed significant at the time, he’s made larger mistakes in life. The song’s message is that life’s challenges and losses go far beyond romantic heartache. With inspiration drawn from Carly Simon's classic "You're So Vain," Tenpenny explores the concept of self-importance in a relationship, pushing back against the idea that his world revolved around his former partner.

Song Info

• Producers: Mitchell Tenpenny, Jordan Schmidt
• Writers: Chris DeStefano, Jeff Braun, Josh Kear, Michael Whitworth, Mitchell Tenpenny
• Release Date: July 28, 2023
• Album: The 3rd
• Genre: Country

Exploring the Lyrics of "Bigger Mistakes" by Mitchell Tenpenny

The lyrics of "Bigger Mistakes" tell the story of a man looking back at his life and realizing that there are far more critical errors he’s made than the end of a relationship. In the opening verse, Tenpenny reminisces about tangible moments, like selling his first guitar or wrecking a truck—situations that felt more impactful than the breakup. The pre-chorus further emphasizes that he’s moved past sweating the small stuff, including the night the relationship ended. The chorus drives home the central point that the ex-girlfriend, once considered important, is now just "old news." This reveals a newfound perspective where personal growth and understanding of life's bigger losses and regrets take precedence. The bridge playfully criticizes the ex for assuming that every emotional expression is centered around her, further underlining the theme of inflated self-importance.

Song Theme

At its core, "Bigger Mistakes" is about shifting perspectives on what truly matters in life. While breakups are painful, they’re not the biggest setbacks one can experience. Tenpenny acknowledges his own faults and regrets, recognizing that relationships are just one piece of a much larger picture. By taking inspiration from Carly Simon's iconic line, "You’re so vain, you probably think this song is about you," Tenpenny challenges the ego and self-centeredness that can linger after a breakup. He wants to remind listeners that heartbreak isn’t the end of the world; bigger mistakes have been made, and life continues to move forward.

Song Composition Breakdown

"Bigger Mistakes" fits comfortably within the contemporary country genre, blending traditional storytelling with modern production. Co-produced by Mitchell Tenpenny and Jordan Schmidt, the song features a steady, guitar-driven melody that supports Tenpenny’s reflective vocals. The chorus is structured to be catchy and memorable, reinforcing the song's message with its repetition of the phrase "bigger mistakes." The instrumentation complements the reflective yet resilient tone of the lyrics, with a mix of soft guitars and drums that help build momentum as the song progresses. The song's bridge, with its playful jab at the ex, adds a layer of lightness and wit, making it relatable and engaging.

Impact and Reception

Given Tenpenny’s track record of emotionally resonant songs like “Drunk Me,” *Bigger Mistakes* is expected to resonate well with fans who appreciate his mix of vulnerability and defiance. The song’s universal theme of moving on from a breakup and realizing that life’s other challenges outweigh romantic mistakes is likely to connect with a broad audience.

Comparisons to Previous Work

Compared to Tenpenny’s earlier hits like “Truth About You” and “Alcohol You Later,” "Bigger Mistakes" takes on a more mature tone. While he has often written about heartbreak and relationships, this song represents a step forward in his personal growth. Instead of focusing on the immediate pain of a breakup, it’s more about looking back with wisdom and perspective, showcasing Tenpenny's evolution as both a songwriter and an artist.

Artist

Mitchell Tenpenny is a Nashville-born country artist known for his emotional delivery and poignant songwriting. His breakout single, "Drunk Me," launched his career, and he has since been recognized for blending traditional country sounds with modern pop influences.