ERNEST Covers John Mayer’s “Slow Dancing In a Burning Room” at Grand Ole Opry

Breakout country singer ERNEST stepped into the Grand Ole Opry’s sacred circle but did not deliver a country song. 

The singer/songwriter, known for his witty wordplay and soulful sound, announced a series called “Circle Sessions” on Wednesday (May 31). ERNEST and his band will deliver stripped-down covers from the hallowed hall. 

The first track ERNEST tackled was John Mayer’s “Slow Dancing In a Burning Room.” The cover, released on June 1, features ERNEST dressed to the nines at the Opry. Without any fans in the audience, the singer/songwriter is joined by his drummer, guitarist, and pedal steel player. 

With confidence, ERNEST jumps into the first verse of the bluesy-rock ballad, luring listeners in with his buttery vocals. Initially, the rendition sounds similar to Mayer’s until the chorus. The Nashville native placed his country twang and twist on the recognizable lyrics, displaying a chilling crescendo. 

We’re going down | And you can see it, too | We’re going down | And you know that we’re doomed | My dear, we’re slow dancing in a burning room, sings the fast-rising artist. I was the one you always dreamed of | You were the one I tried to draw | How dare you say it’s nothing to me? | Baby, you’re the only light I ever saw. 

“Slow Dancing in a Burning Room” is a track from Mayer’s third studio album, Continuum. The crooner penned the song solo but worked alongside Steve Jordan to produce the track. The razor-sharp lyrics convey a heartbreaking narrative about a romantic relationship on the cusp of failing. 

The track has become one of Mayer’s biggest hits from the 12-song project. Mayer’s 2006 album, Continuum, includes the singles “Waiting On the World to Change,” “Gravity,” “Belief,” and “Dreaming with a Broken Heart.” The record reached No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart.  

Photo by Delaney Royer