Country Music

Classic Country Music Hits

Country Music

Barbara Mandrell – “Sleeping Single In A Double Bed”

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.” 

Introduction

Growing up, my weekends were often filled with the sounds of country music playing on the radio. One song that always stood out was “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” by Barbara Mandrell. It was a song that captured the essence of heartache and loneliness in a way that resonated deeply with many listeners, including myself.

About The Composition

  • Title: Sleeping Single in a Double Bed
  • Composer: Kye Fleming and Dennis Morgan
  • Premiere Date: August 1978
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Moods
  • Genre: Country, Urban Cowboy

Background

“Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” was crafted by the songwriting duo Kye Fleming and Dennis Morgan and brought to life by Barbara Mandrell. Released in August 1978, the song quickly climbed to the top of the charts, securing the number one spot on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. This song came at a time when country music was blending with pop influences, a trend that Mandrell was at the forefront of. Its success was a pivotal moment for Mandrell, establishing her as a leading figure in the country music scene.

Musical Style

The composition of “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” is quintessentially country, featuring a blend of acoustic and electric guitars, a steady rhythm section, and the unmistakable sound of the steel guitar. The song follows a traditional verse-chorus structure, with Mandrell’s expressive vocals driving the emotional core of the piece. The arrangement is both simple and effective, allowing the poignant lyrics to take center stage.

Lyrics/Libretto

The song’s lyrics paint a vivid picture of loneliness and the emotional void left by a departed lover. The metaphor of sleeping alone in a double bed poignantly captures the sense of loss and yearning. Mandrell’s delivery of these lyrics is filled with a raw, emotional intensity that makes the listener feel the depth of her sorrow and longing.

Performance History

Barbara Mandrell has performed “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” on numerous stages, including the Grand Ole Opry and various televised events. Each performance has been met with enthusiastic applause, and the song remains a highlight in her live shows. Over the years, it has been covered by several artists, each bringing their own interpretation to this timeless classic.

Cultural Impact

The song played a significant role in the Urban Cowboy movement, which saw country music incorporating more pop and rock elements to reach a wider audience. Its relatable themes of love and loss have ensured its place in the hearts of country music fans. The song’s influence extends beyond the music charts, having been featured in various media and covered by multiple artists, further cementing its cultural significance.

Legacy

“Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” continues to be a beloved classic in the country music genre. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the universal themes it explores and the emotional power of Mandrell’s performance. The song remains a staple in Mandrell’s discography and continues to touch the hearts of new generations of listeners.

Conclusion

Listening to “Sleeping Single in a Double Bed” is like taking a step back in time to a moment when country music was evolving and capturing the hearts of a broad audience. I highly recommend giving this song a listen, along with other tracks by Barbara Mandrell, to fully appreciate the depth and emotion she brings to her music.

Video

Lyrics

Sleeping single in a double bed
Thinking over things I wish I’d said
I should have held you but I let you go
Now I’m the one sleeping all alone, oh
Sleeping single in a double bed
Tossing, turning trying to forget
I could be lying with you instead
I’m sleeping single in a double bed
I’d pour me a drink, but I’d only be sorry
‘Cause drinking doubles alone don’t make it a party
Another sleepless night and it’s the same old story
When you’re the only one at two in the morning
I’m sleeping single in a double bed
Thinking over things I wish I’d said
I should have held you but I let you go
Now I’m the one sleeping all alone
Sleeping single in a double bed
Tossing, turning trying to forget
I could be lying with you instead
I’m sleeping single in a double bed
I’m sleeping single in a double bed
Thinking over things I wish I’d said
I should have held you but I let you go
Now I’m the one sleeping all alone
Sleeping single in a double bed
Tossing, turning trying to forget
I could be lying with you instead
I’m sleeping single in a double bed
Sleeping single in a double bed
Thinking over things I wish I’d said

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