Don Williams – Tulsa Time

Don Williams – Tulsa Time: A Ballad of Regret and Lost Love

Among the pantheon of country music greats, Don Williams stands tall, his baritone voice and introspective lyrics resonating with a quiet intensity. Tulsa Time, released in 1978, stands as a cornerstone of his vast repertoire, a poignant ballad that paints a vivid picture of longing and regret.

Reaching number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, “Tulsa Time” solidified Williams’ status as a country music icon. The song’s narrative unfolds as a man reflects on a love lost, yearning for the life he once shared with his partner in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The lyrics, penned by Danny Flowers, capture the raw emotions of heartbreak and the lingering ache of a past left behind.

Opening with a hauntingly melancholic harmonica melody, the song sets the stage for Williams’ emotionally charged delivery. His voice, described as smooth and sorrowful, perfectly conveys the protagonist’s internal struggle. Lines like “I left Oklahoma drivin’ in a Pontiac / Just about to lose my mind” paint a picture of desperation and a desperate escape from a painful past.

The chorus serves as a poignant refrain, a constant reminder of the life he left behind:

“Tulsa time, I don’t know what you’ve done to me Tulsa time, you set me runnin’ free Now I’m lost and lonely and I can’t seem to win I only know I long to be back again in Tulsa time”

The song’s arrangement is understated yet impactful, featuring a simple acoustic guitar accompaniment and a subtle backing band. This minimalist approach allows Williams’ vocals and the song’s emotional core to take center stage.

“Tulsa Time” has transcended its country music roots, becoming a relatable anthem for anyone who has experienced loss or a yearning for a simpler time. Its enduring popularity is a testament to Williams’ ability to capture universal human emotions with his poignant lyrics and sincere delivery.

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Here are some additional details about the song:

• The song was written by Danny Flowers.
• It was released in 1978 on the album Expressions.
• The song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and spent eleven weeks in the Top 40.