Background
“What She’s Doing Now” is a country song written and recorded by American country music artist Garth Brooks. It was released in September 1991 as the third single from his multi-platinum selling album, *Ropin’ the Wind*. The song quickly ascended the country music charts, reaching the number one spot on the *Billboard* Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart (now Hot Country Songs) in November 1991, where it remained for two weeks. It also crossed over to the mainstream charts, peaking at number 33 on the *Billboard* Hot 100. “What She’s Doing Now” solidified Brooks’ status as a major force in country music and remains one of his most beloved and recognizable ballads.
Musical Style
The song falls squarely within the country ballad genre, prominent in the early 1990s. It features a classic country instrumentation, with prominent use of acoustic guitar, steel guitar, fiddle, and drums. The arrangement is relatively sparse in the verses, allowing Brooks’ vocals and the storytelling lyrics to take center stage. The chorus builds with the addition of layered harmonies and a more pronounced instrumental presence, creating a dynamic contrast between the reflective verses and the more emotionally charged chorus. The tempo is slow and deliberate, enhancing the melancholic and introspective mood of the song. While rooted in traditional country, the production incorporates a subtle polish and fullness characteristic of the era, avoiding a purely “twangy” sound and appealing to a broader audience. Notably, the use of electric guitar is kept to a minimum, ensuring the acoustic elements remain at the forefront. The overall sonic landscape is smooth and accessible, contributing to the song’s widespread popularity.
Lyrics and Theme
“What She’s Doing Now” explores the universal theme of lost love and lingering regret. The lyrics tell the story of a man who reminisces about a past relationship, consumed by curiosity and longing for his former lover. He paints a picture of a casual encounter years after their separation, where they exchange pleasantries but avoid delving into the deeper emotions that still linger beneath the surface. The core of the song lies in the unanswered questions that haunt the narrator. He obsesses over what she’s doing now, who she’s with, and if she ever thinks of him. The lyrics detail his internal struggle, torn between moving on and desperately wanting to know if she feels the same lingering sadness. Lines like “Is she happy in her life, does she ever think of me…or am I just a faded picture in her memory?” encapsulate the song’s central theme of longing and uncertainty. The narrative avoids placing blame or dwelling on the reasons for the breakup, instead focusing on the raw emotions and unresolved feelings that remain years later. This ambiguity allows listeners to project their own experiences of lost love onto the song, contributing to its enduring resonance.
Cultural Impact
“What She’s Doing Now” had a significant impact on country music in the early 1990s. It contributed to Garth Brooks’ meteoric rise to superstardom, further cementing his position as one of the genre’s leading artists. The song’s crossover success broadened the appeal of country music, attracting listeners from other genres and solidifying the genre’s place in mainstream popular culture. Its relatable theme of lost love resonated with a vast audience, contributing to its enduring popularity. The song became a staple on country radio and a frequent request on music video channels like CMT. “What She’s Doing Now” also helped establish the country ballad as a dominant force in the genre, influencing countless subsequent artists and songwriters. Its introspective lyrics and emotional delivery set a benchmark for future country ballads. Beyond its commercial success, the song entered the cultural lexicon, with its title becoming shorthand for the feeling of longing for a past love. The enduring popularity of “What She’s Doing Now” can be seen in its continued presence on country radio playlists, its frequent inclusion in Garth Brooks’ concert setlists, and its enduring popularity on streaming platforms. The song continues to resonate with listeners of all ages, testament to its timeless theme and Garth Brooks’ enduring artistry.
Commercial Performance
The song’s commercial performance was outstanding. “What She’s Doing Now” became a multi-platinum hit, topping the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart for two weeks. It also achieved significant crossover success, reaching number 33 on the Billboard Hot 100. The single’s success further propelled sales of the album *Ropin’ the Wind*, which became one of the best-selling country albums of all time. The song’s popularity translated into strong sales figures for both the single and the album, confirming Garth Brooks’ status as a major commercial force in the music industry. The song’s airplay on country radio was extensive, solidifying its place as a staple in the genre. Awards and accolades followed, further highlighting the song’s impact.
Conclusion
“What She’s Doing Now” stands as a cornerstone in Garth Brooks’ career and a defining song of the 1990s country music scene. Its emotional resonance, relatable theme of lost love, and classic country sound ensured its widespread popularity and enduring legacy. The song’s impact extends beyond its commercial success, influencing subsequent artists and songwriters while solidifying the country ballad’s place within the genre. More than just a hit song, “What She’s Doing Now” has become a cultural touchstone, capturing the universal experience of heartbreak and longing in a way that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release. It remains a testament to Garth Brooks’ songwriting prowess and his ability to connect with audiences on a deeply emotional level. The song’s enduring popularity ensures its place among the greatest country ballads of all time.