“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Picture a dimly lit honky-tonk bar in the 1970s, filled with the sounds of steel guitars and heartache. This is the scene that comes to mind when listening to “She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Doubles),” a song that became a honky-tonk anthem thanks to its poignant depiction of personal despair and romantic betrayal.
About The Composition
- Title: She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Doubles)
- Composer: Gary Stewart
- Premiere Date: 1975
- Album/Opus/Collection: Featured on Gary Stewart’s album “Out of Hand”
- Genre: Country
- Background: Gary Stewart, known for his emotional singing and hard-living lifestyle, perfectly captured the turmoil of a man coping with his partner’s infidelity in this song. Initially released as part of his successful album “Out of Hand,” the track quickly resonated with fans of traditional country music, further cementing Stewart’s reputation as a honky-tonk legend.
Musical Style
The song features traditional country music elements like steel guitar, fiddle, and a shuffle rhythm, creating a melancholic yet toe-tapping ambiance that typifies many country classics. Stewart’s raw vocal delivery adds a layer of genuine emotional pain, enhancing the overall impact of the music.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics tell the story of a man observing his partner’s flirtatious behavior as he seeks solace in alcohol. The straightforward yet powerful narrative explores themes of betrayal, loneliness, and escapism, making it a relatable tale for many.
Performance History
Over the years, “She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Doubles)” has been covered by several artists and remains a favorite in country music circles, praised for its authentic portrayal of heartbreak and resilience.
Cultural Impact
The song’s depiction of personal struggle and coping mechanisms resonated with a wide audience, making it a staple in jukeboxes across America’s bars and establishing it as a cultural symbol of the 1970s country music scene.
Legacy
The enduring popularity of “She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Doubles)” lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level, continuing to influence country musicians and entertain music lovers worldwide.
Conclusion
“She’s Actin’ Single (I’m Drinkin’ Doubles)” offers a window into the soul of traditional country music, embodying the genre’s raw, emotional core. I highly recommend exploring Gary Stewart’s “Out of Hand” album to experience the depth of his musical prowess and storytelling.
Video
Lyrics
I’ve seen men look at her before
And they think I don’t see them
I’d like to think it makes me proud
But I’m only foolin’ me
I know she’ll be lookin’ back
The minute I’m not there
While she pours herself on some stranger
I pour myself a drink somewhere
She’s actin’ single
I’m drinkin’ doubles
I hide my pain
I drown my troubles
My heart is breaking
Like the tiny bubbles
She’s actin’ single
I’m drinkin’ doubles
I know what she plans to do
But I don’t know where or when
If I ask who that stranger was
She’ll just say, an old friend
I’m not weak, I tell myself
I stay because I’m strong
The truth is I’m not man enough
To stop her from doin’ me wrong
She’s actin’ single
I’m drinkin’ doubles
I hide my pain
I drown my troubles
My heart is breakin’
Like the tiny bubbles
She’s actin’ single
I’m drinkin’ doubles
She’s actin’ single
I’m drinkin’ doubles
I hide my pain…