“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
Webb Pierce’s “There Stands The Glass” is more than just a song; it’s a timeless piece that resonates with anyone who’s ever sought solace at the bottom of a glass. Pierce’s rich, emotive voice captures the heartache and yearning that accompanies heartbroken nights. As you listen, you can almost feel the weight of the world on your shoulders, lifted by the clinking of ice cubes. It’s a track that invites you to pause and reflect, to feel deeply, and to understand the universal language of sorrow and redemption that country music so beautifully conveys.
About The Composition
- Title: There Stands The Glass
- Composer: Russ Hull, Mary Jean Shurtz, and Audrey Grisham
- Premiere Date: 1953
- Album/Opus/Collection: “Webb Pierce’s Greatest Hits” or singles in the early 1950s
- Genre: Country
Background
“There Stands The Glass” was released in 1953, during a time when country music was evolving and gaining widespread popularity. Webb Pierce, known for his distinctive nasal voice and honky-tonk sound, quickly became a significant figure in the genre. The song was initially met with great acclaim, reaching the top of the country charts. Its success further cemented Pierce’s influence in the 1950s country music scene, making him a household name.
Musical Style
The song exemplifies classic honky-tonk music, characterized by its straightforward, emotional delivery and instrumentation that includes steel guitar and fiddle. This style perfectly complements the song’s themes of heartache and longing.
Lyrics/Libretto
The lyrics of “There Stands The Glass” poignantly explore themes of despair and the temporary escape offered by alcohol. The song’s narrative revolves around a person seeking refuge from emotional pain, a common theme in country music that resonates with many listeners.
Performance History
Over the years, “There Stands The Glass” has been covered by numerous artists, each bringing their own interpretation to the classic. Its enduring popularity has seen it performed at countless venues, from intimate bars to large concert halls, solidifying its place in the pantheon of country music classics.
Cultural Impact
The song has appeared in various films and television shows, often used to underscore moments of introspection or melancholy. Its influence extends beyond music, as it has become a cultural touchstone for themes of heartache and resilience.
Legacy
Today, “There Stands The Glass” remains an essential piece of the country music canon. Its themes of longing and solace continue to resonate with new generations, and its influence can be heard in the works of countless country artists who followed in Pierce’s footsteps.
Conclusion
Webb Pierce’s “There Stands The Glass” invites listeners into a world of poignant storytelling and emotional depth. Its timeless appeal and heartfelt delivery make it a must-listen for anyone interested in the rich tapestry of country music. I encourage you to explore more of Webb Pierce’s work and discover the profound impact he continues to have on the genre.
Video
Lyrics
There stands the glass
That will ease all my pain
That will settle my brain
It’s my first one today
There stands the glass
That will hide all my tears
That will drown all my fears
Brother I’m on my way
I wonder where you are tonight
I wonder if you are all right
I wonder if you think of me
In my misery
There stands the glass
Fill it up to the brim
Till my troubles grow dim
It’s my first one today
I wonder where you are tonight
I wonder if you are all right
I wonder if you think of me
In my misery
There stands the glass
Fill it up to the brim
Till my troubles grow dim
It’s my first one today