Essie Country’s
Song of the Week
January 25-31, 2026

Man Like Me
by Johnny McGuire
Released 12/01/2023

Review by Gene Johns

Maybe it’s the easy-going melody and the lyrics. It could be the vocal artistry of the singer or the enchanting sound of the steel guitar masterfully played in the background. Or, perhaps it’s just the romantic in me. Whatever it is, probably all of the above, I absolutely love this song and I believe you will too. 

“Man Like Me” is performed by its co-writer, contemporary country music artist Johnny McGuire. A quick internet search (using the Brave browser) found a description about the style and artistry of Johnny McGuire. It read: “His music blends the twang and lyrical content of classic country music with the energy of heartland rock ‘n’ roll.”

This song doesn’t have a “traditional” country music sound. However, Johnny McGuire’s contemporary non-traditional country style delivers a wonderful melodic performance of an amazing song that real country music fans will enjoy and easily claim as a real country music song.

It is too late for the pop hip-hop hijacking of country music to prevent this unforgettable contemporary country music song from reaching the ears of real country music fans. Why? It is now a part of Essie Country’s 21st Century Real Country Music Song of the Week series. 

After you click on the link below, close your eyes, sit back, and let your mind drift on a serene wave of romantic empathy that you will experience when listening to the contemporary non-traditional country style of Johnny McGuire serenading his bride with, “Man Like Me.” 

                             Man Like Me
                        by Johnny McGuire
 https://youtu.be/-f-Hz0y4ywo?si=oXO5nWT_eGhPyaXb

To return to Essie Country blog click: HERE