Introduction:
Released in 1989, Back In The Fire is a prime example of Gene Watson’s brand of traditional country music. Watson, known for his smooth baritone voice and poignant storytelling, delivered a hit song that resonated with fans of the genre.
The songwriting team of Mike Reid and Rory Bourke crafted Back In The Fire. Reid, a Country Music Hall of Fame inductee, is known for country classics like “Stranger In My House” and “Carrying Your Love With Me.” Bourke, a less prolific songwriter, co-wrote Back In The Fire with Reid and it became one of Bourke’s most successful compositions.
Produced by Warner Bros. Records, Back In The Fire was the title track and second single released from Watson’s 1989 album of the same name. The album itself was a critical and commercial success, reaching number three on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart. Back In The Fire, the single, also achieved notable chart success. It peaked at number 20 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, showing the enduring popularity of Watson’s country music style.
While the exact details of the song’s production remain unknown, it likely took place in a Nashville recording studio sometime in 1988. Nashville was the heart of the country music industry at that time and provided the backdrop for countless country hits. Session musicians would have been brought in to play on the track, but specific details about who played on Back In The Fire are unavailable.
The critical reception for Back In The Fire was positive. Critics praised Watson’s vocal delivery and the song’s relatable themes. While not all-encompassing reviews are available from 1989, Back In The Fire is considered a signature song for Gene Watson and helped solidify his place in country music during that era.
Video:
https://youtu.be/qkDVaEZ_jak?si=PgKf19y-LJgzfhkq
Lyrics:
My mind knows full well I should leave hereBut my heart, my foolish heart will not turnShe fills me with a crazy wild desireAnd, lying helpless, I know just how I’ll burn
Back in the fire where my heart must long to beIf it wasn’t so, then why, oh, why does it keep draggin’ me?Back in the fire to the flames of ecstasyI guess I’ll always love the way she burns in me
At times I’ve gone as far as believingThis tortured soul of mine was finally freeThen those long, silent, leftover feelingsSay I’m a pretender, and I’ll surrender willingly
Back in the fire where my heart must long to beIf it wasn’t so, then why, oh, why does it keep draggin’ me?Back in the fire to the flames of ecstasyI guess I’ll always love the way she burns in meI guess I’ll always love the way she burns in me