Reviewed by Anthony Nguyen
Jeannine Higgins' "In This Corner" is a poignant and powerful tribute to the resilience of the human spirit, inspired by the life of champion boxer Christy Martin. From its roots-inspired melodies to its deeply emotive lyrics, the song captivates listeners with its raw honesty and stirring beauty.
The song opens with a haunting melody that sets the tone for a story of struggle and triumph. Through fingerstyle acoustic guitar and ethereal flute-like sounds, Higgins creates a sonic landscape that evokes a sense of conflict and determination. The addition of lush strings adds further depth to the emotional journey portrayed in the music.
Higgins' vocals are a highlight of the song, delivering the lyrics with a folk-pristine quality reminiscent of artists like the Indigo Girls. Her harmonies are exquisite, adding layers of richness to the narrative. As the song progresses, Higgins skillfully builds momentum on rhythm guitar, mirroring the protagonist's journey from a young girl facing adversity to a champion boxer and survivor of domestic violence.
The lyrics of "In This Corner" paint a vivid picture of Christy Martin's story, capturing moments of fear, determination, and ultimately, triumph. Lines like "In this corner at 5'5, One Round and title bound" and "In this corner you will rise" resonate with a sense of empowerment and resilience.
In addition to its lyrical depth, "In This Corner" is a testament to Higgins' talent as a songwriter and performer. Her ability to translate complex emotions into music that resonates with listeners is truly remarkable. With this song, Higgins proves herself to be a compelling storyteller with a unique voice social justice folk.
Overall, "In This Corner" is a moving and memorable song that pays tribute to the strength and courage of individuals who have experienced and escaped domestic violence. Jeannine Higgins' heartfelt performance and heartfelt lyrics make this song a must-listen for fans of folk music and storytelling alike.
Credits: Songwriter: Jeannine Higgins
Artist Bio: Jeannine Higgins is an Austin-based singer-songwriter known for her beautiful vocals and boldly personal songwriting style. With her debut album released in 2018 and her recent EP "Shadow" in 2024, Higgins continues to captivate audiences with her emotive storytelling and soulful performances. A finalist in the 2019 Great American Song Contest, Higgins' music has earned acclaim for its raw emotion and authenticity.