Introduction:
Country music thrives on storytelling, weaving tales of love, loss, and life’s simple joys. Alan Jackson, a name synonymous with heartfelt lyrics and genuine emotion, established himself as a country music powerhouse in the early 1990s. Within this era of success lies “Up To My Ears In Tears,” a poignant ballad released in 1992 on Jackson’s album “A Lot About Livin’ (And A Little ‘Bout Love)”. This song, a prime example of traditional country music, showcases Jackson’s signature baritone vocals and a relatable narrative of heartbreak.
Don Sampson, a frequent collaborator with Jackson, penned the lyrics for “Up To My Ears In Tears.” Sampson, known for his ability to capture the essence of small-town life and everyday struggles, crafted a song that resonated deeply with listeners. The production of the track is credited to Keith Stegall, another mainstay in Jackson’s musical journey. Stegall, known for his ability to create a warm and inviting soundscape, complements the emotional weight of the lyrics with a simple yet impactful arrangement. Acoustic guitar forms the backbone of the song, punctuated by tasteful pedal steel flourishes and a steady drumbeat. Background vocals, used sparingly, add a layer of depth and support to Jackson’s powerful delivery.
While “Up To My Ears In Tears” wasn’t a chart-topping juggernaut, it became a fan favorite and a staple of Jackson’s live performances. Its success lies in its ability to capture the universality of heartbreak. The song doesn’t delve into specifics of the relationship’s demise, allowing listeners to project their own experiences onto the narrative. The raw emotions conveyed through Jackson’s vocals – the despair, the longing, the feeling of being utterly lost – resonate deeply with anyone who has ever grappled with the aftermath of a love lost.
“Up To My Ears In Tears” stands as a testament to the power of storytelling in country music. It’s a song that doesn’t shy away from depicting the darker side of love, offering a sense of catharsis and a reminder that we’re not alone in our moments of heartache. This ballad, a cornerstone of Alan Jackson’s vast discography, continues to connect with listeners, solidifying its place as a timeless country classic.
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Lyrics:
You told me you don’t love me, when you walked out the doorI stood there feelin’ lonely, then the tears began to pourWhat else could I do, I’d never felt like that beforeSo I cried an ol’ blue river in the middle of the floor
Now I’m up to my ears in tearsI’m cryin’ night and day since you went awayThe things you used to say, honey, I no longer hearThat water’s cold and clear, I’m drownin’ for you dearUp to my ears in tears
Well I found some old love letters you wrote me years agoBut the words all ran together when the tears began to flowCause you left that water runnin’ now it’s got nowhere to goIf I can’t wash away your memory well I’ll just go under slow
Now I’m up to my ears in tearsI’m cryin’ night and day since you went awayThe things you used to say, honey, I no longer hearThat water’s cold and clear, I’m drownin’ for you dearUp to my ears in tears
The water’s cold and clearI’m drowning for you dearUp to my ears in tears