(March 7, 2025) No matter what The War and Treaty sing about, especially for love’s sake, there is always a guarantee that the wow factor will be there. Since 2014, the married duo of Michael Trotter, Jr. and Tanya Trotter have brought their fans a riveting package of country, mixed with soul, gospel, and folk. In particular, the country music community has expressed their appreciation with The War and Treaty, including appearances at the CMA (Country Music Association) Awards and touring with the genre’s superstar, Chris Stapleton.
But SoulTracks has also acknowledged their magnetic vocals through previous First Listens: “The Best That I Have” and “That’s How Love Is Made,” both songs reflecting that romance is more than just a night in the bedroom. For the latest First Listen appearance, The War and Treaty drops “Mr. Fun” from their latest, mostly country music driven album, Plus One (Mercury Nashville). On “Mr. Fun,” the soundtrack centers on southern fried soul, as it relays an “I’m gonna’ trick you” scenario between two lovers who are working hard to outwit each other about who the real ‘fool’ may be:
“Baby, why you have to go and fall for me? Oh, no
Didn’t your Pa ever tell you I was up to no good?
Baby, why you’d have to go and play with me?
Didn’t you know I would play a fool for you?”
From that tone setting growl by Michael, “Mr. Fun” translates into soap opera musical theater, providing fiery conversations that reach the highest level of fun conniving – yet keeps the ears glued. And producer John Shanks (Bon Jovi, Sheryl Crow) propels the intense ongoing dialog with the vibe he creates. Overall, “Mr. Fun” is one of the most engaging vocal events in 2025. Take a listen!
By Peggy Oliver
