“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
“Things Have Gone to Pieces” is one of those songs that hits you right in the gut, especially if you’ve ever found yourself staring at a half-empty glass, wondering where it all went wrong. George Jones, known as the “Possum” in country music circles, brings this melancholy tune to life with a voice that carries the weight of a thousand heartaches. This song resonates with anyone who has ever experienced the unraveling of life, piece by painful piece.
About The Composition
- Title: Things Have Gone to Pieces
- Composer: Leon Payne
- Premiere Date: 1965
- Album/Opus/Collection: Single, later included in the album Love Bug
- Genre: Country
Background:
“Things Have Gone to Pieces” was penned by Leon Payne, a prolific songwriter who was no stranger to heartbreak himself. Payne wrote this song in 1965, a time when George Jones was already a well-established figure in country music. The song became an instant hit, charting high on the country music charts and further solidifying Jones’s reputation as a master of conveying deep emotion through his music. The song was initially received with widespread acclaim, praised for its straightforward, yet poignant portrayal of despair.
Musical Style
Musically, “Things Have Gone to Pieces” embodies the traditional country style of the 1960s, with its simple but effective instrumentation. The song features classic country elements such as steel guitar, fiddles, and Jones’s smooth, yet sorrowful, vocal delivery. The structure of the song is straightforward, with verses and choruses that build upon each other to enhance the sense of cumulative despair. The use of minor chords and a slow tempo amplifies the feeling of melancholy that pervades the piece.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “Things Have Gone to Pieces” tell the story of a man whose life is falling apart, one catastrophe at a time. Each verse presents a new example of how everything is going wrong, from broken hearts to broken watches, culminating in the realization that the protagonist is left in pieces, much like his shattered world. The repetition of the phrase “gone to pieces” in each verse drives home the sense of inescapable doom, making the listener feel every ounce of the protagonist’s pain.
Performance History
George Jones first recorded “Things Have Gone to Pieces” in 1965, and it quickly became a staple in his live performances. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, but it is Jones’s rendition that remains the definitive version. His performances of the song are often cited as some of his best, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion with seemingly effortless skill.
Cultural Impact
“Things Have Gone to Pieces” has had a lasting impact on country music, influencing countless artists who followed in George Jones’s footsteps. The song’s themes of loss and despair are universal, resonating with listeners across generations. It has been featured in numerous compilations of Jones’s greatest hits and continues to be a favorite among fans of classic country music.
Legacy
The legacy of “Things Have Gone to Pieces” is closely tied to that of George Jones himself. As one of his most enduring hits, the song remains a powerful reminder of Jones’s ability to connect with his audience on an emotional level. It is a song that continues to find relevance, as its themes are timeless and its execution flawless. New generations of country music fans continue to discover and appreciate this classic, ensuring that its legacy will live on.
Conclusion
“Things Have Gone to Pieces” is more than just a song; it’s a masterclass in storytelling through music. George Jones’s performance of this Leon Payne classic captures the essence of country music—a genre that speaks to the heart and soul of its listeners. If you haven’t yet experienced this song, I highly recommend seeking out one of Jones’s many recordings. Let yourself get lost in the sorrowful melody and heartfelt lyrics, and you’ll understand why this song has stood the test of time.
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Lyrics
The faucet started drippin’ in the kitchen
And last night your picture fell down from the wall
Today the boss said sorry, I can’t use you anymore
And tonight the light bulb went out in the hall
Things have gone to pieces since you left me
Nothing turns out, half-right now it seems
There ain’t nothing in my pocket,
But three nickels and a [4] dime
But I’m holding to the pieces of my dream
Somebody threw a baseball through my window
And the arm fell off my favorite chair again
The man called me today and said he’d haul my things away
If I didn’t get my payments made by ten