Introduction:
George Strait, the “King of Country” himself, released a poignant song about love and loss titled “When You’re a Man On Your Own” in 1990. The track finds its home on Strait’s eleventh studio album, Livin’ It Up. While the album title suggests a more upbeat collection, “When You’re a Man On Your Own” dives into the melancholic side of life.
The song wasn’t written by Strait himself, but by another country legend, Carl Perkins. Perkins, known as one of the pioneers of rockabilly, brought a unique perspective to the genre with this heartfelt ballad. Tony Brown, a frequent collaborator with Strait, took the reins for producing “When You’re a Man On Your Own,” crafting a soundscape that perfectly complements the song’s themes.
“When You’re a Man On Your Own” didn’t receive the same single treatment as some of Strait’s other hits, but it resonated with fans nonetheless. The song’s emotional core and relatable lyrics struck a chord, showcasing Strait’s signature ability to deliver a powerful vocal performance. While it wasn’t released as a single, “When You’re a Man On Your Own” still managed to climb the charts, reaching a respectable position on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This success further solidified Strait’s position as a country music powerhouse in the early 1990s.
Although “When You’re a Man On Your Own” may not be one of Strait’s most well-known tracks, it holds a special place in the hearts of many fans. The song’s exploration of loneliness and heartbreak after a relationship’s end is a timeless theme that continues to resonate with listeners today. It also serves as a reminder of Strait’s incredible versatility as a country singer. Beyond the upbeat anthems and dancefloor two-steppers, Strait could deliver a heartbreaking ballad with just as much depth and conviction.
“When You’re a Man On Your Own” may not have received the same fanfare as some of Strait’s chart-topping hits, but it remains a crucial part of his vast discography. It’s a testament to his ability to connect with listeners through his poignant storytelling and showcases the vast emotional range he brought to country music.
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Lyrics:
They don’t have wordsTo say how blue I’m feelin’This ol’ world can lift you up then lay ya’ down
It’s a mighty lonesome feelin’When your lover’s goneThis ol’ town go’s colderWhen you’re a man on your own
I keep walkin’ the streets of this ol’ cityWindow shoppin’ but I can’t see a thingJust a walkin’ and a hummin’
This lonesome songThis ol’ town grow’s colderWhen you’re a man on your own
Oh’ look at them their smilein’They don’t know I’m hereThey couldn’t care lessIf I just up and disappeared
Oh’ there must be a reasonWhy my nights are so longIt’s a mighty lonesome feelin’When you’re a man on your own
Yeah, it’s a mighty lonesome feelin’When you’re a man on your own