Background
“Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” is a song written and performed by American country music icon Dolly Parton. It was released in July 1980 as the second single from her album 9 to 5 and Odd Jobs. While the album itself was heavily influenced by Parton’s burgeoning acting career and the success of the film 9 to 5, “Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” stands apart, showcasing Parton’s signature wit and wisdom within a relatable narrative about the complexities of romantic relationships.
Musical Style
The song embodies the classic “countrypolitan” sound that Parton helped popularize in the late 1970s and early 1980s. This style blends traditional country instrumentation, such as steel guitar and fiddle, with more polished pop production elements, including lush string arrangements and background vocals. “Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” features a prominent, driving rhythm section, giving the song a slightly up-tempo feel, despite its lyrical message of taking things slow. The bright and bouncy melody, accentuated by Parton’s characteristically clear and emotive vocals, creates an overall optimistic and playful atmosphere. The instrumental breaks showcase the talents of seasoned Nashville session musicians, adding depth and texture to the song’s overall sound. The subtle use of piano and electric guitar adds a touch of contemporary flair without overwhelming the core country aesthetic.
Lyrics
The lyrical brilliance of “Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” lies in its clever paradoxical message. Parton, with her characteristic wit, explores the delicate balance between rushing into love and exercising caution. The song’s central theme revolves around a woman who, despite strong feelings for her partner, recognizes the importance of pacing a relationship. She acknowledges the temptation to jump in headfirst – “My heart keeps sayin’ go on, girl, give in” – but ultimately chooses to proceed with careful consideration. The chorus, “Gonna hurry (as slow as I can), gonna hold back (as much as I can) / Gonna give in (as little as I can), ’til I’m sure he’s the one for this woman,” perfectly encapsulates this internal struggle. This push and pull between desire and restraint is a universally relatable theme, making the song resonate with a broad audience. Parton’s lyrics are not merely descriptive; they tell a story, revealing the protagonist’s vulnerability and wisdom simultaneously. Lines like, “Fool me once, shame on you / Fool me twice, shame on me,” inject a touch of hard-earned wisdom into the narrative, suggesting past heartbreak and a learned cautiousness. The clever wordplay and the use of contrasting phrases add layers of meaning and depth to the seemingly simple lyrics.
Cultural Impact
While “Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” wasn’t as commercially successful as some of Parton’s other singles, reaching number 10 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, it remains a beloved track among her devoted fanbase. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its timeless message and relatable themes. It reinforces Parton’s image as a strong, independent woman who is not afraid to embrace her vulnerabilities. The song’s message of cautious optimism resonated particularly with women in a time of evolving societal norms around relationships. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, women were increasingly asserting their independence and challenging traditional gender roles. “Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” offered a nuanced perspective on navigating romantic relationships, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and taking control of one’s own destiny. Although the song didn’t generate significant controversy or become a massive cultural phenomenon, its message subtly contributed to the ongoing conversation about women’s agency and autonomy in relationships. It provided a soundtrack for a generation of women seeking to balance their desires with their need for self-preservation.
Furthermore, the song showcases Parton’s songwriting prowess and her ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. This contributed to solidifying her status as a respected artist and a significant voice in country music. Although not explicitly a feminist anthem, the song implicitly empowered women to make thoughtful choices in their love lives, a theme that continues to resonate today.
Conclusion
“Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” stands as a testament to Dolly Parton’s songwriting talent and her ability to craft songs that are both entertaining and insightful. It’s a deceptively simple song with a profound message about the complexities of love and relationships. By blending catchy melodies with clever wordplay and relatable themes, Parton created a timeless piece of country music that continues to resonate with listeners decades after its release. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its universal themes, its empowering message, and Parton’s unique ability to connect with her audience on a personal level. While not one of her chart-topping hits, “Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” remains a significant part of Parton’s vast catalog, showcasing her artistry and her enduring impact on country music and popular culture. It embodies a pivotal moment in her career, reflecting both her country roots and her crossover appeal, solidifying her status as a versatile and enduring artist.
warning