About the song
“Tennessee Waltz” is a cherished piece of American country music, renowned for its touching story and timeless melody. The song was crafted in 1946 by Redd Stewart and Pee Wee King, and it was first released to the public in January 1948. However, it was Patti Page’s 1950 recording that truly made “Tennessee Waltz” a national sensation, transforming it into a multimillion-seller and ensuring its place in musical history.
The lyrics of “Tennessee Waltz” tell a bittersweet tale of romance and betrayal. In the song, the narrator recounts a poignant moment when they introduce their sweetheart to a friend. Unfortunately, their friend ends up waltzing away with the loved one, leaving the narrator heartbroken. The lyrics adjust pronouns based on the singer’s gender, adding a personal touch to each rendition of the song.
The immense popularity of “Tennessee Waltz” was further recognized when it was named the fourth official song of Tennessee in 1965. Patti Page’s version of the song earned a prestigious place in the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1998, a testament to its lasting appeal and significance.
The creation of “Tennessee Waltz” began in a truck on the way to Nashville, shortly before Christmas 1946. Pee Wee King and Redd Stewart were inspired by a song they heard on the radio, and they quickly began working on their own waltz. They used the melody of King’s existing theme song, “No Name Waltz,” and penned the lyrics on a matchbox. After presenting their work to music publisher Fred Rose, the song underwent a minor lyrical adjustment.
The initial recordings of “Tennessee Waltz” were made by Pee Wee King’s Golden West Cowboys and Cowboy Copas. Despite some initial setbacks, both versions of the song enjoyed significant commercial success and topped the country charts in 1948. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its heartfelt story and memorable melody, securing its place as a classic in American music history.
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Lyrrics
I was dancing with my darling to the Tennessee Waltz
When an old friend I happened to see
I introduced her to my loved one
And while they were dancing
My friend stole my sweetheart from meI remember the night and the Tennessee Waltz
Now I know just how much I have lost
Yes, I lost my little darling the night they were playing
The beautiful Tennessee WaltzI was dancing with my darling to the Tennessee Waltz
When an old friend I happened to see
I introduced her to my loved one
And while they were dancing
My friend stole my sweetheart from meI remember the night and the Tennessee Waltz
Now I know just how much I have lost
Yes, I lost my little darling the night they were playing
The beautiful Tennessee Waltz