About The Song
Background
“Make the World Go Away” is a country song written by Hank Cochran and first recorded by Ray Price in 1963. However, it was Eddy Arnold’s 1965 version that became the definitive recording and a major hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song’s success helped to revitalize Arnold’s career and establish him as one of the most popular country music singers of the era.
Musical Style
“Make the World Go Away” is a slow, romantic ballad with a lush orchestral arrangement. Arnold’s smooth, expressive vocals are perfectly suited to the song’s sentimental mood. The melody is simple and memorable, allowing the lyrics to take center stage.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Make the World Go Away” are a plea for love and escape from the troubles of the world. The narrator sings to his lover, asking her to make all their worries and problems disappear. He begs her to hold him close and never let him go, creating a world where only their love exists.
The song’s lyrics are full of vivid imagery, painting a picture of a peaceful haven where the couple can escape the harsh realities of the world. The narrator’s longing for love and connection is palpable, making the song a powerful and relatable expression of human emotion.
Cultural Impact
“Make the World Go Away” became an instant classic upon its release in 1965. The song’s popularity extended beyond the country music genre, crossing over to the pop charts and gaining widespread appeal. Arnold’s version of the song has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and Neil Diamond. It has also been featured in many films and television shows, further cementing its place in popular culture.
The song’s enduring popularity is due in part to its timeless theme of love and escape. The desire to find solace and escape from the stresses of life is a universal human experience, and “Make the World Go Away” captures this sentiment perfectly. The song’s lyrics and melody are also incredibly evocative, creating a sense of longing and desire that resonates with listeners.
Critical Reception
“Make the World Go Away” has been praised by critics for its songwriting, Arnold’s vocals, and its overall production. The song has been included in several lists of the greatest country songs of all time, and it has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Commercial Success
“Make the World Go Away” was a commercial success for Eddy Arnold. The song reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart in 1965, and it was also a hit on the pop charts, reaching No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song has been certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Legacy
“Make the World Go Away” is a timeless classic that has touched the hearts of millions of listeners. Its beautiful melody, poignant lyrics, and heartfelt vocals have made it a staple of country music and a beloved song for generations. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its power to connect with listeners on a deep emotional level.
Additional Interesting Facts:
- The song was originally written for country singer Ray Price, but Arnold’s version became the more popular and successful recording.
- “Make the World Go Away” was one of Arnold’s biggest hits, and it helped to revitalize his career in the mid-1960s.
- The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and Neil Diamond.
- It has been featured in many films and television shows, including Thelma and Louise (1991) and Friday Night Lights (2006-2011).
- “Make the World Go Away” has been inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame and the Grammy Hall of Fame.