Introduction:
Bedroom Ballad, a country song steeped in tradition, was released in 1979 by American country music singer Gene Watson. The song, written by Wynn Stewart, tells a poignant story through a conversation between two former lovers. The melancholic narrative details their reminiscing about a past relationship, a theme that would resonate with country music fans and propel the song to significant acclaim.
Gene Watson, known for his rich baritone voice and his ability to deliver heartfelt ballads, was already a rising star in country music by the time Bedroom Ballad hit the airwaves. Previously, Watson had found success with songs like “Love in the Late Afternoon” and “Farewell Party,” but Bedroom Ballad proved to be a breakout hit.
Produced by Billy Sherrill, a legendary country music figure who had worked with performers like Tammy Wynette and George Jones, Bedroom Ballad perfectly captured the essence of classic country music. Sherrill, known for his polished production style, allowed Watson’s vocals to shine, creating a track that resonated with listeners for its emotional depth and its country music authenticity.
The song’s success was undeniable. Bedroom Ballad climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, reaching the coveted number one spot and holding onto it for two weeks. The song’s popularity extended beyond the country charts, achieving crossover success and peaking at number 22 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. This dual-chart achievement put Bedroom Ballad in the spotlight and further solidified Gene Watson’s place among country music’s elite.
The impact of Bedroom Ballad went beyond its chart performance. The song became a staple of Watson’s live performances and a signature tune in his catalog. It earned a place on his 1979 album Should I Come Home, an album title that indirectly reflected the yearning and nostalgia embedded within the song’s lyrics.
Bedroom Ballad‘s legacy is one of enduring popularity. It continues to be a beloved song among country music fans, a testament to its timeless storytelling and its exploration of universal themes of love and loss. The song stands as a significant landmark in Gene Watson’s career, a song that launched him into country music stardom and solidified his reputation as a singer of ballads that touched the hearts of listeners everywhere.
Video:
Lyrics:
Somehow two people brought their lives togetherIn a lasting kind of waySomewhere between forever and right nowIs where I’ll always stay‘Cause when she sings her songs of loveI see myself between her ever lineAnd her bedroom ballad is her best, her sweetestAnd it’s playin’ on my mind
Nobody seems to understand how any man canWear a smile all dayThey ask me who was on the phone ’cause guysNever talk to wives that wayShe’s got a way of sayin’ things just whenI need a thought to make it rhymeAnd her bedroom ballad is her best, her sweetestAnd it’s playin’ on my mind
Like, honey, I love youAnd its it already sevenJust sayin’ that she needs meTakes me mighty close to HeavenAnd she’ll hug and chase me off to workWith a song of love that most men never findAnd her bedroom ballad is her best, her sweetestAnd it’s playin’ on my mindHer bedroom ballad is her best, her sweetestAnd it’s playin’ on my mind