About the song
Juice Newton’s rendition of “Queen of Hearts” stands as a timeless testament to the enduring power of country-rock music. Released in 1981 as part of her album *Juice*, the song quickly captured the hearts of listeners worldwide, reaching the pinnacle of Billboard’s Hot 100 chart and earning Newton a Grammy nomination. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to a confluence of factors: Newton’s evocative vocals, the song’s relatable themes, and the masterful production that brought it to life.
“Queen of Hearts” emerged from the creative mind of DeVito, a composer who had previously collaborated with Newton on the 1980 Rodney Crowell album *But What Will the Neighbors Think*. Recognizing the song’s potential, Newton brought it to producer Richard Landis, who initially expressed reservations about its commercial appeal. However, Newton was convinced of its worth and insisted on recording it. Her intuition proved to be spot on, as “Queen of Hearts” became a breakout hit, propelling Newton to international stardom.
The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level. Its lyrics explore themes of love, loss, and the complexities of human relationships. Newton’s vocals, characterized by their warmth and sincerity, infuse the song with a sense of vulnerability and authenticity. The production, featuring a blend of country, rock, and pop elements, creates a rich and dynamic soundscape that complements Newton’s vocal performance.
Over the years, “Queen of Hearts” has continued to resonate with audiences. Its inclusion in popular films and television shows has ensured its legacy, solidifying its status as a classic of the country-rock genre. Newton’s iconic rendition of the song remains a testament to her artistry and the enduring power of great music.
Video
Lyrics
Midnight, and I’m a-waitin’ on the twelve-oh-five
Hopin’ it’ll take me just a little farther down the line
Moonlight, you’re just a heartache in disguise
Won’t you keep my heart from breakin’
If it’s only for a very short time?
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts
Knowin’ it ain’t really smart
The Joker ain’t the only fool
Who’ll do anythin’ for you
Layin’ out another lie
Thinkin’ ’bout a life of crime
‘Cause that’s what I’ll have to do
To keep me away from you
Honey, you know it makes you mad
Why is everybody tellin’ everybody what you have done?
Baby, I know it makes you sad
But when they’re handin’ out the heartaches
You know you got to have you some
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts
Knowin’ it ain’t really smart
The Joker ain’t the only fool
Who’ll do anythin’ for you
Layin’ out another lie
Thinkin’ ’bout a life of crime
‘Cause that’s what I’ll have to do
To keep me away from you
Lovers, I know you’ve had a few
But hide your heart beneath the covers
And tell ’em they’re the only one
And others, they know just what I’m goin’ through
And it’s a-hard to be a lover
When you say you’re only in it for fun
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts
Knowin’ it ain’t really smart
The Joker ain’t the only fool
Who’ll do anythin’ for you
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts
And knowin’ it ain’t really smart
The Joker ain’t the only fool
Who’ll do anythin’ for you
Layin’ out another lie
Thinkin’ ’bout a life of crime
‘Cause that’s what I’ll have to do
To keep me away from you
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts
Playin’ with the Queen of Hearts