Introduction to the Album – Holding My Own
George Strait, often hailed as the “King of Country,” has a discography that exemplifies the genre’s most heartfelt themes—love, heartbreak, resilience, and tradition. His 1992 album, Holding My Own, is no exception. This album, released under MCA Records, stands out as a testament to Strait’s unwavering commitment to traditional country sounds amid the rise of contemporary influences in the early ’90s.
Featuring tracks that range from honky-tonk rhythms to poignant ballads, Holding My Own showcases Strait’s signature smooth vocals and the deep storytelling ability that has cemented his status as a country music legend. One of the most compelling songs on this album is “I Should Have Watched That First Step.” This song embodies the bittersweet essence of classic country, touching on regret and the consequences of emotional missteps.
With its traditional arrangement and heartfelt lyrics, “I Should Have Watched That First Step” is a prime example of how country music narrates real-life struggles with an unfiltered yet poetic approach. In this review, we will delve into the song’s composition, the instrumentation that enhances its emotional depth, and how it fits within the broader landscape of George Strait’s music.
A Deep Dive into “I Should Have Watched That First Step”
“I Should Have Watched That First Step” is a classic country ballad that conveys the pain of realizing a mistake too late. The song’s lyrics describe the protagonist’s regret over an impulsive decision, using the metaphor of a first step to illustrate how a small action can lead to unintended consequences. Strait’s vocal delivery, smooth yet laced with sorrow, makes the song even more poignant.
The storytelling in the lyrics is a hallmark of country music. It follows a straightforward yet deeply impactful narrative—expressing remorse, longing, and an unavoidable acceptance of one’s choices. The line “I should have watched that first step, it was a mighty big fall” reinforces the theme of caution and regret, making the song relatable to anyone who has experienced the pain of lost love.
Instrumentation and Musical Arrangement
The piece of music stays true to George Strait’s traditional country roots, with a blend of classic instruments that create a timeless sound. The production, as expected from Strait’s collaborations with producer Tony Brown, is clean and balanced, allowing each instrument to shine without overpowering the vocals.
Guitar and Steel Guitar
One of the defining aspects of the song is its masterful use of guitar, particularly the steel guitar, which plays a crucial role in setting the song’s melancholic tone. The steel guitar’s weeping slides perfectly accompany the lyrics’ sense of longing, reinforcing the heartbreak theme.
The acoustic rhythm guitar provides a steady foundation, giving the song a warm and familiar feel, while the electric guitar occasionally adds subtle twangy accents that are signature to Strait’s style. This seamless integration of different guitar elements is a testament to the skill of the session musicians who have consistently supported Strait’s recordings.
Piano and Fiddle
Although the piano plays a more understated role in this track compared to other songs on the album, its presence adds a soft, emotional depth to the arrangement. The light piano chords in the background create an atmospheric feel, making the song richer in texture without drawing attention away from the lyrics.
Meanwhile, the fiddle—another staple of traditional country music—adds a touch of nostalgia. The fiddle interludes between verses help bridge the song’s sections and enhance its storytelling quality.
Drums and Bass
The rhythm section, consisting of drums and bass, maintains a steady tempo that complements the song’s reflective nature. The bass line is subtle but provides the necessary depth to balance the song’s higher-pitched elements, like the steel guitar and fiddle. The drum pattern, kept simple and restrained, ensures that the song remains focused on its emotional message rather than becoming rhythmically overpowering.
How “I Should Have Watched That First Step” Fits into George Strait’s Career
George Strait has a knack for picking songs that resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level. “I Should Have Watched That First Step” fits seamlessly into his vast catalog of ballads that explore the themes of love, loss, and learning from mistakes.
Throughout his career, Strait has maintained a commitment to neo-traditional country music, resisting the trends that have steered the genre toward pop-country influences. This song, like many others in Holding My Own, is a prime example of his dedication to preserving the classic country sound while still appealing to modern audiences.
Strait’s ability to deliver a song with authenticity is what sets him apart. His vocals are not overly embellished; instead, they rely on clarity, sincerity, and an effortless charm that makes even the saddest songs feel comforting.
Similar Songs for Further Listening
If you enjoy “I Should Have Watched That First Step,” here are a few other country songs that carry a similar emotional weight and musical style:
- “The Chair” – George Strait
- A beautifully written song about a chance encounter that may or may not lead to something more. Its conversational lyrics and smooth melody make it one of Strait’s best storytelling pieces.
- “Nobody in His Right Mind Would’ve Left Her” – George Strait
- Another regret-filled ballad that captures the feeling of realizing one’s mistake too late. The melody is haunting yet captivating, making it a classic in Strait’s discography.
- “Chiseled in Stone” – Vern Gosdin
- A deeply emotional song about learning the true meaning of loss, featuring Gosdin’s rich vocals and a heart-wrenching storyline.
- “Neon Moon” – Brooks & Dunn
- A song that perfectly encapsulates loneliness and regret, set against a slow, twangy country backdrop.
- “Don’t Close Your Eyes” – Keith Whitley
- A song filled with longing and unfulfilled love, sung with the signature sorrowful tone that made Whitley a legend.
These songs, much like “I Should Have Watched That First Step,” delve into themes of heartbreak and the consequences of one’s actions, making them perfect companions for anyone drawn to the depth of traditional country ballads.
Final Thoughts
“I Should Have Watched That First Step” is a timeless addition to George Strait’s extensive catalog of country classics. Its well-crafted lyrics, combined with Strait’s smooth vocal delivery and the rich instrumentation of guitar, piano, fiddle, and steel guitar, create a song that resonates with listeners on an emotional level.
The track not only showcases Strait’s storytelling prowess but also serves as a reminder of why traditional country music remains beloved. The song’s message—about the importance of thinking before acting—is universally relatable, making it a standout piece in Holding My Own.
For country music enthusiasts looking for songs that embrace pure emotion and authenticity, this piece of music is an excellent choice. George Strait’s ability to convey heartfelt stories through song is unmatched, and “I Should Have Watched That First Step” is yet another shining example of why he remains a pillar of country music.
If you haven’t already, give this song a listen—it just might become one of your new favorites in George Strait’s extensive discography.
Video
Lyrics
I once had a love, a true and lasting loveBut the fool in me came out one nightAnd with her loving eyes, she saw right through my eyesAnd she changed the night I stepped across the line
I should have watched that first stepIt was a mighty big stepWhen I started stepping out of lineThough she’s still loving meIt’s not the way it used to beThat first step did something to her mind
I watched her slip away a little more every dayAnd my conscience couldn’t live with all that shameShe’s growing colder since the day I told herAnd the love we had will never be the same
I should have watched that first stepIt was a mighty big stepWhen I started stepping out of lineThough she’s still loving meIt’s not the way it used to beThat first step did something to her mind
That first step did something to her mind