Introduction:
The world of country music thrives on storytelling, weaving narratives of love, loss, and the struggles of everyday life. Within this rich tapestry, singer Vern Gosdin carved a niche for himself with his plaintive vocals and songs that explored the complexities of relationships. Released in 1989 on the album Alone, “That Just About Does It” stands as a poignant testament to Gosdin’s ability to capture the raw ache of a love on the brink.
Produced by the legendary Jimmy Bowen, known for his work with artists like Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn, “That Just About Does It” showcases Gosdin’s signature style. The arrangement is simple yet effective, with a melancholic steel guitar weaving through a bed of acoustic rhythm guitar and a steady drumbeat. Gosdin’s voice takes center stage, a weathered baritone that carries the weight of unspoken words and simmering resentment.
“That Just About Does It” wasn’t a chart-topping hit, but it resonated deeply with country audiences. The song’s success lies in its unflinching portrayal of a failing relationship. It avoids melodrama, instead focusing on the quiet desperation of two people clinging to a love that’s slowly slipping away. The lyrics, penned by songwriting duo Rex Dunn and Mack Vickery, paint a picture of a couple locked in a cycle of arguments and reconciliations. The song doesn’t delve into the specifics of the conflict, but the underlying tension is palpable.
“That Just About Does It” is more than just a breakup song. It’s a meditation on the slow erosion of trust and affection. The lyrics hint at past efforts to salvage the relationship, with lines like “So many times I talked you out and so many times you tried.” Yet, a sense of resignation hangs heavy in the air. Both partners seem to recognize the futility of continuing a relationship that’s become a source of pain.
The song’s emotional core lies in the chorus, where Gosdin delivers the titular line with a weary finality. “That just about does it” – the simplicity of the phrase speaks volumes. It’s a surrender, an acknowledgment that the well of love has run dry. The repetition of the phrase throughout the chorus hammers home the point of no return.
“That Just About Does It” isn’t a song about grand gestures or dramatic declarations. It’s a quiet, introspective look at the slow, agonizing death of a relationship. Through his nuanced performance and the song’s evocative lyrics, Vern Gosdin reminds us that sometimes, the most heartbreaking goodbyes are the ones whispered in the quiet ache of acceptance.