“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” is a country music song written by Bill Mack and recorded by Tammy Wynette. It was released in 1968 as a B-side to her single “Your Love Is a Heartache.” However, the song’s popularity quickly surpassed its A-side, and it became Wynette’s signature song, reaching number 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1970.
Musical Style
The song is a classic country ballad, featuring a simple arrangement with acoustic guitar, fiddle, and steel guitar. Wynette’s vocals are emotive and heartfelt, conveying the pain and sadness expressed in the lyrics. The song’s tempo is moderate, allowing for a focus on the emotional content.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” tell the story of a woman who is struggling to cope with the breakdown of her marriage. She spells out the word “divorce” letter by letter, emphasizing the finality of the situation. The song’s imagery is vivid, painting a picture of the woman’s loneliness and despair.
Here are some key lines from the song:
- “D-I-V-O-R-C-E, that’s a bitter word to me”
- “I’m gonna live alone, I’m gonna cry alone”
- “I’m gonna learn to live without you”
The lyrics are both poignant and relatable, capturing the universal experience of heartbreak and loss.
Cultural Impact
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” was a major hit upon its release, and it remains a popular country song today. The song’s enduring appeal can be attributed to its timeless message and its ability to evoke strong emotions in listeners.
The song’s success also helped to establish Tammy Wynette as a major country music star. She continued to release hit songs throughout her career, and her legacy lives on in the music of countless other artists.
Conclusion
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” is a classic country song that has stood the test of time. Its relatable lyrics, catchy melody, and emotive vocals have made it a beloved favorite among fans of country music. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its power to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E”
So we spell out the words we don’t want him to understand
Like T-O-Y or maybe S-U-R P-R-I-S-E
But the words we’re hiding from him now
Tear the heart right out of me.
Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E; becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be goin’ away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E.
Watch him smile, he thinks it Christmas
Or his 5th Birthday
And he thinks C-U-S-T-O-D-Y spells fun or play
I spell out all the hurtin’ words
And turn my head when I speak
‘Cause I can’t spell away this hurt
That’s drippin’ down my cheek.
Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E; becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be goin’ away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E.