About the song
“You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” stands as a defiant anthem in Loretta Lynn’s storied career, showcasing her prowess as a songwriter and performer in the realm of country music. Released in May 1966 under Decca Records, this song quickly became synonymous with Lynn’s bold and assertive style.
Recorded at the famed Columbia Recording Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, on November 15, 1965, the track was produced by Owen Bradley, a pivotal figure in shaping the Nashville sound. During this session, Lynn not only laid down the tracks for “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” but also recorded other notable songs like “Dear Uncle Sam” and “God Gave Me a Heart to Forgive,” which further highlighted her ability to blend poignant storytelling with traditional country instrumentation.
The inspiration behind “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” stemmed from a real-life encounter Lynn had with a woman backstage before one of her concerts. Moved by the woman’s lament over another attempting to steal her husband, Lynn’s spirited response became the core message of the song. This personal touch infused the lyrics with authenticity, resonating deeply with audiences who appreciated Lynn’s candid portrayal of relationships and assertive femininity.
Upon its release, “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” soared to number two on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, marking it as one of Lynn’s most successful singles up to that point. Its popularity cemented Lynn’s reputation as a powerhouse in country music, known for her honest lyrics and unwavering delivery. The song was included on her 1966 album of the same name, further solidifying its impact within her discography.
Over the years, “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” has been covered by various artists across different genres, attesting to its enduring appeal and universal theme. From performances by the Grateful Dead to interpretations by Martina McBride and Tina Turner, the song’s influence has transcended country music, resonating with diverse audiences who appreciate its empowering message and memorable melody.
In popular culture, the song’s presence has been felt in unexpected places, such as a comedic rendition recorded by Dwayne Johnson for the film “Be Cool” and live performances by Hayley Williams of Paramore. Its inclusion on the tribute album “Coal Miner’s Daughter: A Tribute to Loretta Lynn” in 2010 reaffirms its status as a timeless classic that continues to inspire and captivate listeners.
“You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” remains a testament to Loretta Lynn’s ability to capture the complexities of human emotion and relationships through her music. Its enduring popularity and cultural impact underscore its place as not just a song, but a defining moment in the legacy of one of country music’s most influential artists.
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Lyrics
You’ve come to tell me somethin’
You say I ought to know
That he don’t love me any more
And I’ll have to let him go
You say you’re gonna take him
Oh, but I don’t think you can
‘Cause you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
Women like you, they’re a dime a dozen
You can buy ’em anywhere
For you to get to him I’d have to move over
And I’m gonna stand right here
It’ll be over my dead body
So, get out while you can
‘Cause you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
Aw, pick it out there, Dave
Sometimes a man’s caught lookin’
At things that he don’t need
He took a second look at you
But he’s in love with me
Well, I don’t know where that leaves you
Ah, but I know where I stand
And you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
Women like you they’re a dime a dozen
You can buy ’em anywhere
For you to get to him I’d have to move over
And I’m gonna stand right here
It’ll be over my dead body
So, get out while you can
‘Cause you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
No, you ain’t woman enough
To take my man