About The Song
Background
“I’ll Think Of A Reason Later” is a country song released in December 1998 by American singer-songwriter Lee Ann Womack. The track served as the second single from her critically acclaimed album, “Some Things I Know,” which released earlier that year.
The song was written by Tony Martin and Tim Nichols, two established Nashville songwriters known for their work with artists like Trisha Yearwood and Trace Adkins. Lee Ann Womack herself wasn’t involved in the writing process, but the song resonated with her and became a defining moment in her early career.
Musical Style
“I’ll Think Of A Reason Later” falls squarely within the realm of traditional country music. The instrumentation features a prominent acoustic guitar with a steady strumming pattern, a driving drumbeat, and subtle accents from piano and fiddle. Womack’s vocals take center stage, delivering the lyrics with a clear, twangy tone that perfectly captures the emotional core of the song.
The melody is catchy and memorable, with a strong focus on storytelling through the lyrics. The overall tempo is moderate, creating a balance between a lighthearted feel and the underlying tension of the protagonist’s emotions.
Lyrics
The song’s lyrics present a humorous and relatable situation. The narrator, a woman, encounters another woman who seems to be perfect. This seemingly flawless individual performs acts of charity, is universally admired, and embodies everything one might consider desirable. However, the narrator expresses a surprising sentiment: “She may be an angel who spends all winter / Bringing the homeless blankets and dinner / A regular Nobel Peace Prize winner / But I really hate her. I’ll think of a reason later.”
The crux of the song lies in this internal conflict. The narrator acknowledges the positive qualities of this other woman but feels a surge of inexplicable dislike. The song’s title, “I’ll Think Of A Reason Later,” emphasizes the impulsive nature of this emotion. The narrator doesn’t need a justification for her feelings in the moment; the dislike is simply there.
The lyrics explore themes of jealousy, social pressures, and the complexities of female relationships. The song doesn’t delve into the reasons behind the narrator’s dislike, leaving space for interpretation. Perhaps the other woman represents a rival in love or someone who embodies a life path the narrator herself regrets not taking.
Cultural Impact
“I’ll Think Of A Reason Later” became a major hit for Lee Ann Womack. It peaked at number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, solidifying her position as a rising star in the country music scene. The song resonated with audiences for its witty lyrics and relatable portrayal of female emotions.
The song’s success helped propel “Some Things I Know” to critical acclaim and commercial success. Womack received a Grammy nomination for Best Female Country Vocal Performance for her rendition of the song.
“I’ll Think Of A Reason Later” transcended the genre, finding appreciation beyond the traditional country music audience. The song’s relatable theme and catchy melody garnered airplay on pop radio stations, broadening Womack’s fanbase.
The song’s cultural impact extends to its influence on other artists. The playful exploration of jealousy and unspoken dislike resonated with female songwriters who began incorporating similar themes into their own work.
Conclusion
“I’ll Think Of A Reason Later” remains a significant song in Lee Ann Womack’s career and a notable entry in the canon of country music. Its witty lyrics, relatable theme, and catchy melody continue to resonate with listeners today. The song’s cultural impact lies in its ability to explore complex female emotions with a touch of humor, paving the way for a more nuanced portrayal of women in country music.