Play Guitar Play, released in 1977, showcases a different side of the “Hello Darlin'” crooner. This song, the title track of his album of the same name, pulsates with a driving rhythm and a touch of rock and roll swagger, all while staying true to Twitty’s country roots.
Background
Play Guitar Play wasn’t just another single for Twitty. It marked his 19th number one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, solidifying his position as a country music powerhouse. This wasn’t a fluke – the song itself is a masterclass in storytelling and relatable emotions.
The song opens with a simple yet evocative image: “The radio’s playin’ a rock and roll song, but it don’t do nothin’ for me no more.” This line sets the stage for a man yearning for something more profound, something that resonates with his soul. Enter the guitar, the universal symbol of country music and a powerful tool for emotional expression.
Twitty’s lyrics paint a picture of a man lost in his thoughts, reminiscing about a love that’s faded. He pleads, “Play guitar, play a sad song, a song about someone who’s lost their way.” The music, a blend of country twang and a driving backbeat, perfectly complements the melancholic yearning in his voice.
As the song progresses, the protagonist delves deeper into his emotional state. He talks about the emptiness in his life, the loneliness that consumes him. The line “This house is too big, these rooms are too cold” speaks volumes about the hollowness he feels without his lost love.
But amidst the sadness, there’s a flicker of hope. The protagonist believes that music, particularly the soulful strains of a guitar, can bridge the gap between his current state and the happiness he once knew. He begs, “Play guitar, play a love song, a song that reminds me of yesterday.” This plea highlights the power of music to evoke memories and transport us back to a different time and place.
Play Guitar Play is more than just a catchy country tune. It’s a testament to the enduring power of music to connect with our emotions, to provide solace in times of sorrow, and to rekindle memories of love and loss. It’s a song that resonates with anyone who has ever experienced heartbreak, and it’s a reminder that music, like a trusted friend, can always be there for us.
Harley