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”
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.