Introduction:
Released in 1983, “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” became a signature song for country music legend George Strait. The track perfectly encapsulates Strait’s signature style – a blend of traditional country instrumentation with heartfelt vocals that resonate with themes of everyday struggles and resilience.
Right or Wrong, the album on which the song appears, marked a turning point in Strait’s career. Released after a brief period of experimentation with a more pop-oriented sound, Right or Wrong saw Strait return to his roots. The album, produced by Ray Baker, was a critical and commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and solidifying Strait’s position as a leading figure in neotraditional country music.
“Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” is a prime example of this neotraditional sound. The song features a simple yet effective arrangement with a prominent steel guitar and a driving rhythm section. Strait’s vocals are smooth and expressive, conveying a sense of weariness and frustration as he sings about a series of misfortunes that seem to pile on whenever it rains.
While the song doesn’t offer any explicit solutions, it resonates with listeners who have faced similar situations – moments when life’s troubles seem to come all at once. The relatable lyrics and Strait’s sincere delivery make “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” a timeless country classic.
The song’s success wasn’t limited to critical acclaim. “Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” reached number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, further solidifying Strait’s place as a country music superstar. The song remains a staple on country radio stations and continues to be a fan favorite at Strait’s concerts.
“Every Time It Rains (Lord Don’t It Pour)” stands as a testament to George Strait’s enduring legacy. The song’s enduring popularity showcases the power of traditional country music and Strait’s ability to connect with audiences through his relatable storytelling and heartfelt vocals.
Video:
Lyrics:
… Every time my ship comes inA hurricane blows it out againStormy weather seems to hang around my doorMy sweet bird of paradiseFlew the coop on me last nightOh, and every time it rains, Lord don’t it pour
… I got a letter from the I.R.SThey said, son, you’re in a hell of a messOur computer shows you owe ten-thousand moreThat machine’s made a bad mistake‘Cause that’s more than this poor boy makesOh, and every time it rains, Lord don’t it pour
… Every time it rains I just wash my carThe whole neighborhood goes swimmin’ in my front yardWell, my mother-in-law says she’s stayin’ three weeks moreWhoa, oh, and every time it rains, Lord don’t it pour
… Just got my car out of the shopTwo blocks down the street it stoppedI went to use the telephone at the grocery storeI walked back to my ChevroletBut they towed that sucker awayWhoa, oh, and every time it rains, Lord don’t it pour
… Every time it rains I just wash my carThe whole neighborhood goes swimmin’ in my front yardWell, my mother-in-law says she’s stayin’ three weeks moreOh, and every time it rains, Lord don’t it pourWell, every time it rains, Lord don’t it pour