About the song
Today, let’s delve into a classic country-rock tune by The Kentucky Headhunters titled “Walk Softly On This Heart Of Mine.” This song, released in 1989 as part of their debut album “Pickin’ on Nashville,” encapsulates the band’s signature blend of Southern rock, blues, and traditional country music.
The Kentucky Headhunters, hailing from Edmonton, Kentucky, burst onto the country music scene with a sound that was refreshingly raw and authentic. Known for their gritty vocals, intricate guitar work, and a touch of Southern charm, the band quickly gained recognition for their unique style. “Walk Softly On This Heart Of Mine” exemplifies their ability to blend genres seamlessly, appealing to both country purists and rock enthusiasts alike.
The song itself is a cover of a country classic originally recorded by Bill Monroe in the 1960s. The Kentucky Headhunters’ rendition gave the track a modern twist, infusing it with their trademark energy and instrumental prowess. Doug Phelps’s soulful vocals and the band’s tight harmonies added a new dimension to the heartfelt lyrics, which speak of love lost and the pain of betrayal.
“Pickin’ on Nashville,” the album that features this hit single, was a breakthrough success for The Kentucky Headhunters. It peaked at number 2 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and stayed on the chart for an impressive 100 weeks. The album’s commercial success was bolstered by the popularity of singles like “Walk Softly On This Heart Of Mine,” which climbed to the top 30 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart.
In addition to its chart success, “Walk Softly On This Heart Of Mine” became a fan favorite and a staple in the band’s live performances. Its enduring appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics, memorable melody, and the band’s authentic delivery, which resonated with audiences across different generations.
As we listen to “Walk Softly On This Heart Of Mine” today, it serves as a testament to The Kentucky Headhunters’ enduring influence on the country music landscape. Their ability to blend traditional roots with a contemporary edge continues to captivate listeners, cementing their status as one of the most distinctive acts in country-rock history.
Video
Lyrics
You say you’re sorry once again, dear
You want me to take you back once more
You say you need a helping hand, dear
But that’s what you told me once before
Walk softly on this heart of mine, love
Don’t treat it mean and so unkind
Let it rest in peace and quiet, love
Walk softly on this heart of mine
Walk on!
I know someday you’ll find a new love
I feel your heart has turned to stone
But please, let me down real easy
‘Cause loneliness moves in as you move on
Walk softly on this heart of mine, love
Don’t treat it mean and so unkind
Let it rest in peace and quiet, love
Walk softly on this heart of mine
Walk softly on this heart of mine
Walk softly on this heart of mine, oh!