About the song
“Houston” is a captivating song written by Lee Hazlewood and first recorded by Sanford Clark in 1964. This song is a great example of storytelling through music, drawing listeners into the life of a troubled drifter.
The lyrics are told from the perspective of a man who describes himself as “a walkin’ case of the blues.” Throughout the song, he reflects on his string of bad luck with verses like, “I found a dollar yesterday, but the wind blew it away.” Each verse concludes with a heartfelt refrain: “Going back to Houston, Houston, Houston…” This repeated line emphasizes his longing for the city where he hopes to find solace.
The final verse brings a touch of hope to the story. Despite his many troubles, the narrator looks forward to reuniting with a girlfriend who lives in Houston. He adds a note of uncertainty with “at least, she said she’d be,” suggesting that he’s unsure of her feelings or her promise to wait.
Musically, “Houston” features a blend of country and pop, marked by its medium tempo and a strolling rhythm. A brief harmonica solo adds to its charm. The song begins and ends with a unique percussive sound that has sparked some debate. Dean Martin’s version of the song, which became a hit in 1965, popularized it further. Dean Martin’s daughter, Deana Martin, shared that her father mentioned using an empty Coca-Cola bottle and a spoon to create this sound. In contrast, drummer Hal Blaine once suggested that the sound was made by tapping a glass ashtray with a triangle wand.
Overall, “Houston” is a memorable piece that combines storytelling with a distinctive musical style, leaving a lasting impression on its listeners.
Video
Lyrics
Well it’s lonesome in this old town
Everybody puts me down
I’m a face without a name
Just walking in the rain
Goin’ back to Houston, Houston, HoustonI got holes in both of my shoes
Well I’m a walking case of the blues
Saw a dollar yesterday
But the wind blew it away
Goin’ back to Houston, Houston, HoustonI haven’t eaten in about a week
I’m so hungry when I walk I squeak
Nobody calls me friend
It’s sad the shape I’m in
Goin’ back to Houston, Houston, HoustonGoin’ back to Houston, Houston, Houston
I got a girl waiting there for me
Well at least she said she’d be
I got a home and a big warm bed
And a feather pillow for my head
Goin’ back to Houston, Houston, HoustonWell it’s lonesome in this old town
Everybody put me down
I’m a face without a name
Just walking in the rain
Goin’ back to Houston, Houston, Houston