Introduction:
Country crooner Gene Watson solidified his place in the genre with the release of Pick The Wildwood Flower in 1979. The song, a sentimental ballad about a cherished memory, became a cornerstone of Watson’s career and a staple of country radio.
Pick The Wildwood Flower originated from the songwriting talents of Joe Allen. Allen, a seasoned songwriter with cuts for artists like Moe Bandy and Johnny Cash, crafted a tender narrative that resonated with listeners. Watson, known for his distinctive baritone and heartfelt delivery, brought Pick The Wildwood Flower to life under the production guidance of Billy Sherrill. Sherrill, a legendary country music producer who had worked with performers like Tammy Wynette and George Jones, imbued the song with a signature country polish.
Pick The Wildwood Flower was released in June 1979 as the third single from Watson’s album Reflections. The song quickly gained traction on country radio stations, climbing the charts and reaching number five on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This impressive feat cemented Watson’s status as a rising star and Pick The Wildwood Flower became one of his most recognizable hits.
Beyond commercial success, Pick The Wildwood Flower resonated with audiences for its poignant lyrics and relatable themes. The song tells the story of a grown man reminiscing about a childhood memory of picking wildflowers with his mother. The simple act of picking flowers takes on a deeper meaning, symbolizing the innocence and love of his youth. Pick The Wildwood Flower struck a chord with listeners who connected with the power of nostalgia and the enduring bond between parent and child.
The legacy of Pick The Wildwood Flower continues to endure. The song remains a popular choice for country karaoke nights and country music playlists. It serves as a reminder of Gene Watson’s talent for storytelling and his ability to connect with listeners through genuine emotion. Pick The Wildwood Flower is a country classic that continues to resonate with audiences of all generations.
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Lyrics:
Them Texas fields were hotAnd that tractor never was my kind of livingAnd when I hit sixteenI had my size and I hit the road to freedomAnd I’m glad I wasn’t thereTo see my momma cause she must’ve cried for hoursI still hear her saying GaryGet your guitar and pick The Wildwood Flower
Now Dallas it was bigAnd hard to find a job and so I didn’tIt was easier to hitch a ride to HoustonAnd it was more like livingNow I’ve been down every roadAnd I’ve stood on every porch where they were givingAnd if they had an hour or a dimeI would pick The Wildwood Flower
It’s hard to turn aroundAnd look back down the roads that I have travelledCause like a neverending ball of twineMy dreams have come unravelledAnd now as evening lays its shawlAcross the shoulders of my life I have definedI couldn’t tie my life togetherWith the guitar strings and a poet’s heart full of pride
And I’m so glad I wasn’t thereTo see my momma cause she must’ve cried for hoursI still hear her saying GaryGet your guitar and pick The Wildwood Flower