Background

  • Songwriting: “Third Rate Romance” was written by Russell Smith and first recorded in 1974 by Jesse Winchester and his band, the Rhythm Aces.
  • Recording: The song gained wider popularity in 1975 when it was recorded by the newly formed Amazing Rhythm Aces and included on their album “Stacked Deck.”
  • Release: The song was released as a single in 1975 and reached number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.

Musical Style

  • Genre: “Third Rate Romance” is classified as country rock, soft rock, and adult contemporary.
  • Instrumentation: The song features acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar, drums, piano, and vocals.
  • Arrangement: The arrangement is relatively simple, with a focus on the vocals and the storytelling aspect of the lyrics.

Lyrics

  • Theme: The lyrics tell the story of a casual encounter between two people who are looking for a one-night stand.
  • Tone: The tone of the lyrics is somewhat ironic and humorous, with a touch of cynicism.
  • Notable Lyrics: Some of the most memorable lyrics include:
    • “Sittin’ at a tiny table in a ritzy restaurant”
    • “She said, ‘You don’t look like my type, but I guess you’ll do'”
    • “Third rate romance, low rent rendezvous”
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Cultural Impact

  • Chart Success: “Third Rate Romance” was a commercial success, reaching number 16 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
  • Critical Reception: The song has been praised for its clever lyrics and catchy melody.
  • Legacy: “Third Rate Romance” is considered one of the signature songs of the Amazing Rhythm Aces and remains a popular choice for cover versions.

Conclusion

“Third Rate Romance” is a well-crafted song with a memorable melody and clever lyrics. It has become a classic of the 1970s and continues to be enjoyed by listeners today.

Additional Information

  • The song has been covered by many artists, including Lyle Lovett, Emmylou Harris, and Shawn Colvin.
  • The song has been featured in several films and television shows.
  • The song is often cited as an example of the “anti-hero” archetype in popular music.

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