George Jones – Somebody Wants Me Out Of The Way

Introduction

Every once in a while, a song comes along that feels like it was made to echo through the corridors of heartbreak and resilience. “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” by George Jones is one of those songs. Imagine finding yourself at a crossroads, feeling an invisible push, like a force determined to make you leave a place where your heart firmly belongs. That sentiment, paired with Jones’ emotionally charged delivery, makes this song a gem that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever felt sidelined or unwelcome.

About The Composition

• Title: Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way
• Composer: Dennis Knutson and A.L. “Doodle” Owens
• Premiere Date: 1986
• Album: Wine Colored Roses
• Genre: Country

Background

“Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” is a track from George Jones’ 1986 album Wine Colored Roses. Co-written by Dennis Knutson and A.L. “Doodle” Owens, the song speaks to a palpable sense of displacement and longing. In the mid-1980s, Jones was navigating a turbulent period in his career, dealing with personal struggles and changes in the music industry. The song captures this tension, serving as both a reflection of his own battles and a universal narrative for those feeling pushed aside.

When the song was released, it wasn’t just a musical entry—it was an artistic declaration from Jones, signaling that despite the challenges, his voice and presence in country music were far from being diminished.

Musical Style

Musically, “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” is steeped in traditional country elements. It features a melancholic blend of steel guitar, fiddle, and steady rhythm sections, which perfectly underscore the song’s theme of rejection and perseverance. The minor chords and deliberate pacing add a layer of gravity, making listeners feel the weight of the lyrics. Jones’ nuanced vocal delivery, with his signature emotional inflection, breathes life into each line, pulling the listener into the story with every verse.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics depict a man who senses that someone is subtly trying to push him out of a relationship—whether it’s a rival or an unseen hand of fate. The storytelling is vivid and direct, capturing a complex emotional landscape of suspicion, heartbreak, and defiance. There’s a raw honesty in lines like “Somebody wants me out of the way, and that somebody’s with you every day,” which draws a stark picture of feeling unwelcome but standing firm.

Performance History

The song was performed by George Jones during a pivotal era of his career. While it may not have garnered the commercial success of some of his earlier hits, its emotional depth has made it a cherished piece among fans. Over the years, “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” has become a beloved track in Jones’ discography, often praised for its lyrical intensity and Jones’ powerful delivery.

Cultural Impact

“Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” may not be as widely known outside the realm of country music aficionados, but its impact within the genre is profound. It’s a song that exemplifies Jones’ ability to convey complex emotions and to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry. The themes of the song have made it a frequent choice for covers by artists who appreciate its depth and authenticity.

Legacy

This song is a testament to George Jones’ resilience and talent. Even when facing personal and professional challenges, Jones delivered performances that resonated deeply. “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” serves as a reminder of his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to articulate the often-painful realities of life and love. Today, the song stands as a classic example of 1980s country music, showcasing the storytelling and emotional richness that define the genre.

Conclusion

“Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” is more than just a song—it’s a story of defiance and standing your ground. If you’re looking to experience it in its finest form, I recommend listening to the original album version from Wine Colored Roses. Jones’ voice, coupled with the melancholic instrumentation, makes it a hauntingly beautiful piece that lingers long after the last note fades. Explore this track and let its message resonate with your own experiences of holding on, even when the world seems determined to push you out of the way

Introduction

Every once in a while, a song comes along that feels like it was made to echo through the corridors of heartbreak and resilience. “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” by George Jones is one of those songs. Imagine finding yourself at a crossroads, feeling an invisible push, like a force determined to make you leave a place where your heart firmly belongs. That sentiment, paired with Jones’ emotionally charged delivery, makes this song a gem that resonates deeply with anyone who’s ever felt sidelined or unwelcome.

About The Composition

• Title: Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way
• Composer: Dennis Knutson and A.L. “Doodle” Owens
• Premiere Date: 1986
• Album: Wine Colored Roses
• Genre: Country

Background

“Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” is a track from George Jones’ 1986 album Wine Colored Roses. Co-written by Dennis Knutson and A.L. “Doodle” Owens, the song speaks to a palpable sense of displacement and longing. In the mid-1980s, Jones was navigating a turbulent period in his career, dealing with personal struggles and changes in the music industry. The song captures this tension, serving as both a reflection of his own battles and a universal narrative for those feeling pushed aside.

When the song was released, it wasn’t just a musical entry—it was an artistic declaration from Jones, signaling that despite the challenges, his voice and presence in country music were far from being diminished.

Musical Style

Musically, “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” is steeped in traditional country elements. It features a melancholic blend of steel guitar, fiddle, and steady rhythm sections, which perfectly underscore the song’s theme of rejection and perseverance. The minor chords and deliberate pacing add a layer of gravity, making listeners feel the weight of the lyrics. Jones’ nuanced vocal delivery, with his signature emotional inflection, breathes life into each line, pulling the listener into the story with every verse.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics depict a man who senses that someone is subtly trying to push him out of a relationship—whether it’s a rival or an unseen hand of fate. The storytelling is vivid and direct, capturing a complex emotional landscape of suspicion, heartbreak, and defiance. There’s a raw honesty in lines like “Somebody wants me out of the way, and that somebody’s with you every day,” which draws a stark picture of feeling unwelcome but standing firm.

Performance History

The song was performed by George Jones during a pivotal era of his career. While it may not have garnered the commercial success of some of his earlier hits, its emotional depth has made it a cherished piece among fans. Over the years, “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” has become a beloved track in Jones’ discography, often praised for its lyrical intensity and Jones’ powerful delivery.

Cultural Impact

“Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” may not be as widely known outside the realm of country music aficionados, but its impact within the genre is profound. It’s a song that exemplifies Jones’ ability to convey complex emotions and to remain relevant in a rapidly changing industry. The themes of the song have made it a frequent choice for covers by artists who appreciate its depth and authenticity.

Legacy

This song is a testament to George Jones’ resilience and talent. Even when facing personal and professional challenges, Jones delivered performances that resonated deeply. “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” serves as a reminder of his unwavering dedication to his craft and his ability to articulate the often-painful realities of life and love. Today, the song stands as a classic example of 1980s country music, showcasing the storytelling and emotional richness that define the genre.

Conclusion

“Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” is more than just a song—it’s a story of defiance and standing your ground. If you’re looking to experience it in its finest form, I recommend listening to the original album version from Wine Colored Roses. Jones’ voice, coupled with the melancholic instrumentation, makes it a hauntingly beautiful piece that lingers long after the last note fades. Explore this track and let its message resonate with your own experiences of holding on, even when the world seems determined to push you out of the way