Introduction
Imagine the thrill of a heart race—no, not from speed, but from the whirlwind of emotions that hit when love is lost. That’s exactly what “The Race Is On” captures. Originally brought to life by George Jones in 1964, this song takes the listener on a lively ride through heartbreak, turning the universal pain of lost love into a spirited musical sprint. With its upbeat tempo and clever wordplay, it’s a piece that has resonated with country music fans for decades. Let’s dive into what makes this song a classic.
About the Composition
- Title: The Race Is On
- Composer: Don Rollins
- Premiere Date: 1964
- Album/Collection: The Race Is On (1964)
- Genre: Country
Background
“The Race Is On” was composed by Don Rollins and first popularized by George Jones, whose distinctive voice and style made the song an instant hit. This track came during a prolific period for Jones, marking a peak in his early career. Despite its upbeat and light-hearted melody, the song’s lyrics convey the sorrow and drama of heartbreak. The playful racing metaphor used to describe heartache struck a chord with listeners, solidifying it as a staple in Jones’s repertoire and in country music as a whole.
Musical Style
The song’s fast-paced tempo, combined with a honky-tonk rhythm, perfectly captures the chaotic energy of a “race” in love and emotions. The instrumentation prominently features steel guitars and fiddles, which add a lively yet bittersweet tone, aligning well with the song’s lyrical content. The clever arrangement allows Jones’s vocal delivery to shine, as he navigates the melody with ease, creating a contrast between the upbeat tune and the underlying sadness.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “The Race Is On” use a racing metaphor to describe heartbreak, comparing emotions to a competitive event. Lines like “Now the race is on and here comes Pride up the backstretch, Heartaches are going to the inside” cleverly personify emotions as contestants in a horse race. This metaphor adds humor and relatability to a painful subject, making the song both entertaining and thought-provoking. The contrast between the lively melody and the lamenting lyrics is a testament to the songwriting’s depth and ingenuity.
Performance History
“The Race Is On” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including a notable rendition by Sawyer Brown in 1989, which reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Each artist brings their own flair to the song, but George Jones’s original remains the definitive version. The song has been performed live at countless concerts and remains a fan favorite, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Cultural Impact
This song’s influence extends beyond country music. Its catchy tune and witty lyrics have made it a favorite in various media, including TV shows and films that wish to evoke a sense of playful heartbreak. Its lively pace and unique take on love’s trials have made it a beloved piece that transcends genres, resonating with anyone who has experienced the highs and lows of relationships.
Legacy
“The Race Is On” stands as one of George Jones’s signature songs. It represents his ability to take complex emotions and transform them into something universally relatable. Over half a century later, the song continues to captivate audiences, both old and new, proving that the themes of love and loss are timeless.
Conclusion
“The Race Is On” is a brilliant example of how humor and heartbreak can coexist in music. Its clever use of metaphor, combined with George Jones’s masterful delivery, has cemented it as a classic in country music history. For those who haven’t heard it yet, I highly recommend starting with the original 1964 recording by George Jones. It’s a song that will have your heart racing—whether from the upbeat tempo or from the raw emotion beneath. Give it a listen, and let the race begin
Video
Lyrics
I feel tears wellin’ up
Cold and deep inside
Like my heart’s sprung a big break
And a stab of loneliness sharp and painful
That I may never shake
Now, you might say that I was takin’ it hard
Since you wrote me off with a call
But don’t you wager that I’ll hide the sorrow
When I may break right down and bawl
Now the race is on
And here comes pride up the backstretch
Heartaches are goin’ to the inside
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My heart’s out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartache
And the winner loses all
One day I ventured in love
Never once suspectin’
What the final result would be
How I lived in fear of wakin’ up each mornin’
And findin’ that you’re gone from me
There’s ache and pain in my heart
For today was the one I hated to face
Somebody new came up to win her
And I came out in second place
Now the race is on
And here comes pride up the backstretch
Heartaches are goin’ to the inside
My tears are holdin’ back
They’re tryin’ not to fall
My heart’s out of the runnin’
True love’s scratched for another’s sake
The race is on and it looks like heartaches
And the winner loses all