Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way: A Haunting Ballad of Betrayal and Heartache
George Jones, the legendary “Possum,” was a titan of country music, known for his raw emotion, distinctive voice, and heart-wrenching ballads.
Background
Among his vast discography, “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” stands as a poignant testament to his ability to convey deep, complex emotions through song. Released in 1969, this haunting tune explores themes of betrayal, jealousy, and the pain of a love gone wrong.
The song’s narrative unfolds with a sense of impending doom, as the protagonist grapples with the realization that someone is plotting against their relationship.
The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a love triangle, where suspicion and mistrust erode the foundation of trust. Jones’s vocals, raw and vulnerable, capture the character’s anguish and despair. His voice, filled with a lifetime of experience and heartbreak, imbues the song with a palpable sense of authenticity.
One of the most striking aspects of “Somebody Wants Me Out of the Way” is its ability to evoke a strong emotional response.
The lyrics, coupled with Jones’s emotive delivery, create a haunting atmosphere that lingers long after the final note. The song’s melancholic melody, combined with the somber instrumentation, further enhances its emotional impact.
Musically, the track is a masterclass in country music production. The arrangement is sparse, allowing Jones’s voice to take center stage.
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Lyrics
🎵 Let’s sing along with the lyrics! 🎤
Somebody keeps paying my bar tabBut the bartender won’t tell me whoHe gives me six cold ones to go when he closesAnd slips me a dollar or twoMy woman is keeping me busyAnd I’m afraid to go ask her why but the moreI keep drinking, the more I keep thinkingThere’s somebody new in her lifeSomebody wants me out of the wayAnd I bet I’ll find out when I go home todayHere comes the waitress with a loaded down traySomebody wants me out of the wayNow, my woman is under suspicionAnd all I can see in my mindIt’s two cheating lovers who love under coverAnd the covers they’re under is mineSomebody wants me out of the wayAnd I bet I’ll find out when I go home todayHere come the waitress with a loaded down traySomebody wants me out of the waySomebody wants me out of the way