By: Taylor Conner Sims
When Scott Pryor steps into a studio, he doesn’t just record music—he tells a story. His latest single, a thunderous and emotionally charged cover of Pat Benatar’s “We Belong,” reintroduces the anthem to a new generation with bold guitars, gritty vocals, and an unmistakably personal touch. The track’s raw energy and modern reimagining pay homage to the original while carving out its own space in today’s rock landscape. From the first pounding drumbeat to the final soaring chorus, Pryor injects new life into this classic track.
The new track—now streaming on Spotify, Apple Music, Pandora, and all major platforms—marks the first release from Pryor’s upcoming second studio album. And it’s more than just an album: it’s a passion project celebrating the powerful female rockers who inspired him long before he stepped up to the mic. This collection aims to showcase Pryor’s versatility while staying true to his rock roots.
“Pat Benatar’s We Belong has always resonated deeply with me,” says Pryor. “It’s one of those songs you feel in your chest. It hits even harder when you’re going through something, and I’ve been through a lot. Music became my lifeline during the toughest times, and that’s what I want to share with others.”
Indeed, Pryor’s path to music was forged through fire. A U.S. Marine veteran, nationally ranked trial lawyer, and award-winning filmmaker, Pryor faced his most profound personal loss in 2023 with the death of his son Elijah. His debut album, Wide Awake, was a raw, emotional exploration of that pain and a public commitment to raising awareness for mental health through art. The album’s success proved Pryor’s ability to transform personal tragedy into powerful creative expression.
Now, with a talented support team including Grammy-recognized vocal coach and producer Jan Smith and producer Jesse Owen Astin, Pryor is channeling his grief, grit, and rock soul into a new era. The team reimagined We Belong with heavier instrumentation and a modern rock edge. The result is a track that feels both nostalgic and fresh, blending Pryor’s lived-in vocals with searing guitar work. Astin’s production elevates the track while maintaining the emotional core that made the original so enduring.
“We aimed to capture strength and defiance,” says Astin. “This isn’t just a love song anymore—it’s something fiercer. Scott’s interpretation brings out new layers of meaning that resonate with today’s listeners.”
Pryor’s voice—both gravelly and grounded—delivers the lyrics like a mission statement. It’s not just a tribute to Benatar; it’s an anthem for anyone struggling to find their place in the world. The track’s universal themes of belonging and resilience strike a particularly powerful chord in our current cultural moment.
Critics and fans are already responding with praise, calling the track “cathartic,” “strikingly intense,” and “one of the most unexpected and compelling covers of the year.” It’s a rock revival, no doubt—but it also hints at the artistic direction Scott Pryor is taking as a musician unafraid to explore deep emotions. Early listeners report being moved by the track’s emotional authenticity and raw power.
With more tracks on the way, a second album in production, and a tour slated for late 2024, We Belong could be just the beginning of this next chapter. Pryor’s dedication to authenticity and emotional resonance suggests his music will continue to connect with listeners on a profound level. As he prepares to release more music, industry watchers are taking notice of this multi-talented artist’s rapid evolution. As Pryor puts it:
“I’m not just here to make music—I want it to mean something. If one person hears this song and feels less alone, then I’ve done my job.”
For interviews and appearances, contact: L. Nelson | An Officer and Gentlewoman, LLC | pr@aoagwllc.com
Published by Jeremy S.
