“You Might Not Like Her” by Maddie Zahm
Written for Tongue Tied Magazine, June 2022
If someone asked you to reflect on your younger self, what would come to mind? Past relationships, embarrassing moments, bad grades? Now what about the good things … your favorite teen heartthrobs? Staying up late? Laughing with friends? Do you miss the person you once were, or are you happy they are gone? In theory, they aren’t and you’re still, and always will be, that person.
Singer/songwriter, and American Idol alum, Maddie Zahm’s newest track “You Might Not Like Her” might offer some relief to those conflicting thoughts. Telling a vulnerable story about past trauma, her sexuality, her relationship with her body, and so much more, Maddie Zahm has completely opened herself up for the world to see her true self. And she encourages you to do the same! With its gentle melodies and hard-hitting, explosive lyrics, “You Might Not Like Her” could be one of Maddie’s most emotional songs to date - especially if you can personally relate.
This track comes across as an apology letter to earlier versions of yourself. At the age of 10, you may have skipped a few meals to look a certain way. At the age of 15, you swore off all relationships because the thought of facing your sexuality was terrifying. At 20, you are still lost, and confused, but as time goes on we find a way to learn and grow from our experiences. You wouldn’t be the person you are today without them and I can definitely say it won’t be the last time you look back and regret your past decisions.
Maddie Zahm’s “You Might Not Like Her” wants you to be kind to yourself - past, present, and future. Granted, it’s a learning process but take it day by day and maybe play this song on repeat for a bit until you feel that weight start to ease off your shoulders. Maddie’s music is daring, self-aware, and growing in popularity with each release.
Maddie Zahm
Listen to “You Might Not Like Her” here.