Released in 2005 as part of his album Somewhere Down in Texas, She Let Herself Go is a prime example of Strait’s storytelling mastery. But this particular tale takes a delightful turn, offering a refreshing perspective on heartbreak dipped in a touch of humor.
On the surface, the song seems to follow a familiar country trope: a love gone wrong. The opening lines paint a picture of a man reflecting on a recent breakup:
“Heard you’re movin’ on, found yourself a brand new place Guess that’s what happens when a love goes to waste”
Straining with a touch of bitterness, the narrator imagines the woman succumbing to a stereotypical post-breakup slump – neglecting her appearance, isolating herself, and generally “letting herself go.” This assumption fuels the first verse:
“Figured you’d be cryin’ on the phone, missin’ my goodbye Lettin’ yourself go, gained a pound or two, I wouldn’t cry”
Here, we see the man projecting his own insecurities onto the situation. He expects her to be devastated, mirroring his own potential emotional state.
But then comes the delightful twist. The chorus flips the script entirely:
“But I heard you let yourself go on your first blind date Had the time of your life with some friends at the lake Let yourself go, buy a brand new car Drove down to the beach, he always said was too far Sand sure felt good between your toes”
The woman, far from succumbing to despair, embraces her newfound freedom. She’s taking risks, exploring possibilities, and living life on her own terms. The blind date, the trip to the lake, the spontaneous beach excursion – these were all activities the narrator, perhaps controlling or restrictive, may have discouraged in the past. The “letting herself go” takes on a whole new meaning, a connotation of liberation and self-discovery.
Background
She Let Herself Go is a masterclass in subverting expectations. It’s a breakup song, yes, but not a downbeat one. It’s a reminder that heartbreak, while painful, can also be a catalyst for personal growth. The woman in the song finds her own happiness, leaving the narrator to confront his own assumptions and potential regrets.
This playful twist on a familiar theme resonated with audiences. The song became a number-one hit on the U.S. Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, tying Conway Twitty’s record for most number-one singles at the time. It also showcased Strait’s ability to deliver a relatable story with a wink and a smile, a quality that has endeared him to fans for decades.
She Let Herself Go stands as a testament to Strait’s enduring legacy. It’s a song that’s both catchy and insightful, offering a lighthearted perspective on a universal experience. So next time you hear that unmistakable Strait twang, remember: sometimes, letting yourself go can be the best thing you can do.
Harley