Revisionist History Encore: The King of Tears
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Jul 10, 2025 Join songwriter Bobby Braddock, the genius behind heart-wrenching country hits like "He Stopped Loving Her Today." He discusses why country music evokes such deep emotions, contrasting its storytelling prowess with the upbeat nature of rock. Together, they delve into heartache through poignant songs like "D-I-V-O-R-C-E" and explore the profound connections of music with grief and love. The emotional tribute during a live performance of his iconic song showcases the charged atmosphere of storytelling that resonates with audiences.
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Gladwell's Early Country Music Love
- Malcolm Gladwell grew up in rural Ontario loving country music despite its being an unlikely fit for a British Jamaican kid. - He vividly recalls crying to George Jones' "The Grand Tour" at age 13, drawn deeply into its storytelling.
Braddock's Breakthrough Song
- Songwriter Bobby Braddock's breakthrough came with Tammy Wynette's "D-I-V-O-R-C-E," a song initially rejected for its too cheerful melody for such sad lyrics. - Collaborating with Curly Putman, Braddock adjusted the song to a mournful tone, making it a number one hit and a blueprint for tear-jerking country songs.
The Sad Song Divide
- Rock music's greatest hits rarely dwell on death or deep personal sorrow, often omitting tragedy and grief in their narratives. - In contrast, country music openly embraces themes of death, loss, and heartbreak, creating a distinct emotional divide in American musical taste.