Introduction:
“Let’s Give It Up Or Get It On” is a landmark song in the career of country music singer Gene Watson. Released in 1975, the mid-tempo shuffle became a defining moment for Watson, propelling him to national stardom and showcasing his talent for capturing the complexities of love and relationships.
The song struck a chord with audiences with its relatable lyrics about a troubled relationship. The narrator, presumably a man wrestling with his own feelings, pleads with his partner for a decision. Are they going to rededicate themselves to the relationship and reignite the spark, or is it time to call it quits and move on? The lyrics paint a picture of a love that has become stagnant, illustrated by details like a “new car in the driveway” and “a pickup in the backyard that no one likes but me.” It’s a scenario that many couples face, that nagging uncertainty about the future and the weight of past disappointments.
Billy Sherrill, a legendary country music producer known for his work with artists like Tammy Wynette and George Jones, was behind the helm for “Let’s Give It Up Or Get It On”. Sherrill was known for his polished “countrypolitan” sound, and this song exemplifies that style. The song features a smooth melody, a driving rhythm section, and lush backing vocals that perfectly complement Watson’s emotive vocals.
The song’s success was undeniable. “Let’s Give It Up Or Get It On” climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, peaking at number two. This commercial achievement not only solidified Watson’s place in the country music landscape but also turned the song into his signature tune. It became a staple of radio play and a favorite among fans, ensuring its place in the pantheon of classic country music.
“Let’s Give It Up Or Get It On” is more than just a catchy tune. It’s a song that resonates with listeners because it taps into universal human emotions. The uncertainty and desperation of a failing relationship is something that many people can relate to, and Watson’s performance perfectly captures that emotional vulnerability. For these reasons, “Let’s Give It Up Or Get It On” continues to be a beloved song, a testament to Gene Watson’s talent for storytelling and his enduring legacy within country music.
Video:
Lyrics:
There’s a new car in the driveway and some money I don’t need
And there’s a pickup in the backyard that no one likes but me
We already raised the children like an old time they’d be gone
So honey let’s give up or get it on
I can say this life I’ve shared with you was anything but good
And if I could find the love we had Lord knows you know I would
We’ve got everything to live with but everything’s almost gone
So honey let’s give up or get it on
I’ve been pullin’ this old load so long I’m almost out of tracks
But I hope that you’re who somehow finds the love that brings me back
I guess I’m like my pickup truck I’ve been gone too hard too long
So honey let’s give up or get it on
( fiddle – steel )
I’ve been pullin’ this old load so long…
So honey let’s give up or get it on