About the song
Loretta Lynn, the iconic “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” has left an indelible mark on the country music landscape. Her ability to craft heartfelt narratives from the perspective of a working-class woman has resonated with audiences for generations. Among her vast discography, one song stands out as a particularly poignant and powerful statement: “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’.” Released in 1967, this track marked a pivotal moment in Lynn’s career, becoming her first number-one country hit.
Penned by Lynn herself in collaboration with her sister, Peggy Sue, “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’” is a bold and uncompromising exploration of domestic life and the challenges faced by many women during that era. The song paints a vivid picture of a wife’s weariness and frustration as she awaits her husband’s return home from a night of drinking. Lynn’s raw and emotive vocals capture the complex emotions of a woman who is both deeply in love and deeply hurt.
The song’s narrative arc is both simple and profound. It begins with a sense of anticipation, as the wife prepares a meal and sets the table. However, as the evening wears on, her hope turns to dread as she realizes that her husband’s behavior is becoming increasingly erratic. The lyrics, “Don’t come home a-drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind, ‘Cause I’ll be too weak to turn you away this time,” convey a sense of vulnerability and resignation that is both heartbreaking and relatable.
“Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’” was groundbreaking for its time, as it tackled a subject that was often considered taboo in country music. By giving voice to the experiences of women who were struggling with addiction and infidelity, Lynn helped to normalize conversations about these difficult issues. The song’s commercial success was a testament to the universality of its themes, and it quickly became an anthem for women who were seeking to break free from the constraints of traditional gender roles.
Musically, the song is characterized by a steady, driving rhythm and a melancholy melody that perfectly complements the lyrics. The Jordanaires provide lush harmonies that add depth and richness to the arrangement. The production is simple yet effective, allowing Lynn’s vocals to take center stage.
In the decades since its release, “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’” has been covered by countless artists and has been featured in numerous films and television shows. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal. It is a powerful reminder of the challenges faced by many women in the past, and it continues to resonate with audiences today.
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Lyrics
Well, you thought I’d be waitin’ up when you came home last night
You’d been out with all the boys and you ended up half tight
Liquor and love, they just don’t mix
Leave that bottle or me behind
And don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
No, don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
Just stay out there on the town and see what you can find
‘Cause if you want that kind of love, well, you don’t need none of mine
So don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
You never take me anywhere because you’re always gone
Many a night I’ve laid awake and cried here all alone
Then you come in a kissin’ on me it happens every time
So don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
No, don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
Just stay out there on the town and see what you can find
‘Cause if you want that kind of love, well, you don’t need none of mine
So don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
No, don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind