Megan Moroney and Kenny Chesney have officially captured the magic of country music in their new collaboration, "You Had To Be There," which was released on Friday, May 9, 2025. The song tells a heartfelt story of nostalgia, friendship, and the electrifying experience of live music, all while showcasing the duo's chemistry that blossomed during their time on the Sun Goes Down Tour last summer.
In her latest track, Moroney reflects on a significant moment from her past, recalling the excitement of saving up to attend a Kenny Chesney concert in Atlanta back in 2018. The song serves as a full-circle moment for the Georgia native, who now finds herself performing alongside the country music icon. "You Had To Be There" was penned as a Christmas gift for Chesney in 2024, a gesture that highlights the deep friendship that has developed between the two artists.
When unveiling the song, Moroney expressed her joy and nervousness, stating, "As y’all know, I write about things that are important to me & the sun goes down tour + becoming friends with @kennychesney last summer was undoubtedly a highlight of my career & my life. I wrote out the lyrics & gifted this song to him for Christmas." The song opens with a vibrant guitar riff, gradually building up to a celebratory anthem that encapsulates the essence of summer and living in the moment.
The lyrics transport listeners to a vivid scene where Moroney recalls getting ready for the concert with her friends, filled with anticipation and excitement. "Five girls in the mirror putting make-up on / There's boys downstairs playing drinking songs / Curled up round a hand-me-down guitar singing oh-oh-oh / Brand new boots that we're 'bout to break in / Bought some nosebleed seats / Summer money well-spent / Parking lot, take a shot, steal a kiss / And we're ready to go," she sings, painting a relatable picture for fans who have experienced similar moments.
As the song progresses, Moroney's narrative shifts to the present day, where she reflects on her journey as a performer. "Seven years later got a different point of view / Got a soundcheck in ten and my own dressing room / Going round the world with the King of No Shoes singing, oh-oh-oh," she sings, alluding to her role as an opening act on Chesney's tour. This transformation from fan to performer is a central theme of the song, showcasing the unique perspective that only a select few get to experience.
Chesney, known for his feel-good music and ability to connect with audiences, complements Moroney's enchanting vocals perfectly. His advice to her—"Keep your heart on your sleeve and your chin held high / Baby, hold on tight and don't let go"—serves as a reminder to cherish every moment and embrace the journey ahead. The camaraderie between the two artists shines through, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere throughout the track.
The chorus of "You Had To Be There" encapsulates the essence of the live music experience: "I see the lights / I hear the band / Feels like the whole world's in our hands / Soakin’ it up / Breathin’ it in / One day we'll say, ‘Remember when?’ / We were so alive / I swear that night / There was magic in the air / You had to be there." This powerful sentiment resonates with anyone who has felt the thrill of being part of a live concert, emphasizing that some moments are simply unforgettable.
Leading up to the release, Moroney shared a handwritten version of the song's lyrics on social media, dated December 19, 2024. The heartfelt note was accompanied by a message from Chesney, who expressed his gratitude for the song, stating, "What an amazing way to start 2025. Megan gave me the gift of music with a song she wrote about our tour together!! Nobody has ever written a song for me before. What a gift ... Love you Megan!" This exchange highlights the genuine bond that has formed between them through their shared experiences.
During a mock interview recorded in Saint John in the US Virgin Islands, Moroney recounted the process of writing the song. "So we had a trip planned to come down to the island on January 1st, 2025, and I knew that I needed to bring Kenny's Christmas gift with me. So I was like, I'm gonna have to get really creative here." The song's creation was not just a personal endeavor; it became a reflection of her journey from a fan to a performer, emphasizing the importance of cherishing those magical moments.
In a heartfelt response, Chesney described the first time he heard the song, saying, "The first time I heard it was right over there at the bar, and when it was over I [said,] ‘Play it again’...You're right, we played it like eight times in a row. And I couldn’t believe it because it was a true postcard, if you will, of everything we experienced on the road, the ups and downs...all of it." His appreciation for Moroney's thoughtful gift underscores the significance of their friendship and shared experiences on tour.
As the song continues to gain traction among fans, it serves as a reminder of the profound connections that can be formed through music. Moroney's journey from a concert-goer to a collaborator with one of country music's biggest stars is a testament to the power of dreams and the magic of live performances. The heartfelt lyrics of "You Had To Be There" resonate with anyone who has ever experienced the thrill of a live show, capturing the essence of what it means to be truly present in the moment.
Ultimately, the collaboration between Megan Moroney and Kenny Chesney showcases not only their musical talents but also the bonds forged through shared experiences. As they continue to tour together, fans can look forward to more unforgettable moments and songs that capture the spirit of country music.
