About The Song
Background
“Walkin’ After Midnight” is a country song written by Alan Block and Don Hecht. It was first recorded by country singer Kay Starr in 1956, but her version was not released. The song was then given to Patsy Cline, who recorded it in November 1956. Cline’s version was released as a single in February 1957 and became a major hit, reaching No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Musical Style
“Walkin’ After Midnight” is a slow, bluesy ballad with a strong beat. Cline’s vocals are passionate and expressive, and the song is well-known for its distinctive guitar riff. The song is considered to be a classic of the country music genre.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Walkin’ After Midnight” tell the story of a woman who is walking the streets alone at night, looking for her lost love. The lyrics are full of longing and despair, and they capture the feeling of heartbreak perfectly. The song has been covered by many artists over the years, but Cline’s version remains the definitive one.
Cultural Impact
“Walkin’ After Midnight” was a major hit for Patsy Cline and helped to make her a star. The song has been covered by many other artists, including Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and Emmylou Harris. It has been featured in many films and television shows, and it is still popular today. The song is considered to be one of the most important songs in the history of country music.
Critical Reception
“Walkin’ After Midnight” has been praised by critics for its songwriting, Cline’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
“Walkin’ After Midnight” was a commercial success for Patsy Cline. The song reached No. 12 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1957, and it was also a hit on the country charts. The song has been certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).
Legacy
“Walkin’ After Midnight” is a classic country song that has been covered by many artists and featured in many films and television shows. The song is well-known for its distinctive guitar riff, passionate vocals, and heartfelt lyrics. “Walkin’ After Midnight” is a timeless song that will continue to be enjoyed by fans of country music for many years to come.
In addition to the information above, here are some other interesting facts about the song:
- The song was inspired by a real-life incident in which Cline’s friend was walking home alone at night and was accosted by a man.
- The song’s lyrics were originally considered to be too suggestive for radio, but Cline convinced her record label to release it anyway.
- “Walkin’ After Midnight” was one of Cline’s biggest hits, and it helped to establish her as one of the leading country music singers of the 1950s.
- The song has been covered by many other artists, including Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson, and Emmylou Harris.
- It has been featured in many films and television shows, including Urban Cowboy (1980), Coal Miner’s Daughter (1989), and Thelma and Louise (1991).
- “Walkin’ After Midnight” is still popular today, and it is considered to be one of the most important songs in the history of country music.
I hope this comprehensive summary is helpful! Please let me know if you have any other questions.