"The Long Way" is a midtempo countryballad with influences of pop music.[4] The song is "a look into what I want to find in love," according to a press release from Eldredge.[5] Lyrically, the song describes how a lover can get to know their partner on a deeper level by exploring their history and their hometown.[6] "The Long Way" was written at a time where Eldredge was looking for true love and his cowriter, Matt Rogers, was soon to be married, which inspired the romantic lyrics.[7] Certain details were inspired by the writers' upbringings while others were generalized.[7]
Critical reception
Cillea Houghton of Sounds Like Nashville wrote that "The Long Way" is a "standout track" on the album that "allows his voice to shine," and is a "real charmer."[4]Top Country also labelled the song as a highlight of the album, writing, "the emotional melodies intertwine with the lyrics to make the story come to life, like any perfect country song."[8] Taylor Weatherby of Billboard included "The Long Way" on a list of Eldredge's 10 best songs and wrote, "this love song from his latest record proves that he has quite the range -- while also giving further proof that he’s a king at writing lyrics that make you melt."[9]
Music video
The music video was directed by Jim Shea and premiered on CMT, GAC & CMT Music in October 2017. It features Eldredge and Sadie Robertson dancing. The video has since reached over 22 million views. [10]
Chart performance
"The Long Way" debuted at number 41 on the BillboardHot Country Songs chart dated June 3, 2017.[11] The song sold 11,000 copies in its first week, debuting at number 14 on the Country Digital Song Sales component chart.[12] The song re-entered the chart at number 38 for the week of August 26, 2017 and has since reached a peak position of 23.[13][14] "The Long Way" debuted at number 56 on the Country Airplay chart dated September 9, 2017.[15] The song has sold 137,000 copies in the United States as of March 2018.[16]
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