Introduction:
Which Side of the Glass, a contemplative ballad dipped in the twangy hues of country music, was released in the year 2000. The song’s melancholic charm finds its home on the album George Strait, the eponymous studio album by the King of Country Music himself, George Strait. This album marked a milestone in Strait’s career, being his thirtieth studio offering, a testament to his enduring reign in the country music scene. Which Side of the Glass wasn’t just another track on the album; it became a breakout hit, solidifying Strait’s position as a country music icon.
The mastermind behind the production of Which Side of the Glass was Tony Brown. A country music veteran himself, Brown had collaborated with Strait on numerous occasions, including Strait’s platinum-selling album Carrying Your Love with Me (1997). Their collaborative efforts proved to be magic once again, with Which Side of the Glass becoming a critical and commercial success.
The poignant lyrics of Which Side of the Glass were crafted by the songwriting duo of Dana Hunt Oglesby and Fred J. Knobloch. Ogelsby, known for her work with artists like Trisha Yearwood, and Knobloch, a seasoned songwriter with a long list of hits to his credit, weaved a tapestry of words that resonated deeply with listeners. Which Side of the Glass explored themes of heartbreak, regret, and the complexities of human relationships. The song’s title itself serves as a metaphor, prompting introspection on the subjective nature of perception and the emotional distance that can arise within relationships.
Which Side of the Glass wasn’t merely a radio hit; it climbed the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, reaching a commendable position at number 7. This achievement solidified the song’s place among Strait’s greatest hits and further cemented his status as a country music legend. The song’s impact extended beyond the charts, earning a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 2003. This recognition by the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences served as a validation of the song’s artistic merit and its enduring impact on the country music landscape.
Even today, Which Side of the Glass remains a cherished piece in Strait’s catalog. It continues to be a favorite among fans, often requested at concerts and featured on various George Strait compilation albums. The song’s enduring legacy lies in its ability to capture the complexities of love and loss with a poignant simplicity, making it a relatable and timeless classic in the world of country music.
Video:
Lyrics:
In a second story window framed in lace
There she is again Sitting staring into space Thinking back to better days Darlin’ with the pain Some folks think it’s teardrops Me, I think it’s rainAnd there it is the cold hard truth
So plain to see The living proof Where do you stand? What’s your point of view? I guess it all depends on Which side of the glass you’re looking throughBeneath a neon chandelier
He leans on polished oak And orders one more whiskey Lights another smoke He shivers at the memory And trembles as he stirs Some folks think it’s him But me, I think it’s herAnd there it is the cold hard truth
So plain to see The living proof Where do you stand? What’s your point of view? I guess it all depends on Which side of the glass you’re looking throughI turn towards the mirror
It’s time to face the facts Looking for the reason You’re not ever coming backAnd there it is the cold hard truth
So plain to see The living proof Where do you stand? What’s your point of view? I guess it all depends on Which side of the glass you’re looking throughOh, I guess it all depends on
Which side of the glass You’re looking through