“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”
Introduction
The first time I heard George Strait’s “Give It Away,” I was driving through the Texas countryside, windows down, feeling the warm breeze on my face. The song’s poignant lyrics and Strait’s smooth voice immediately resonated with me, encapsulating the essence of heartbreak and the painful process of letting go. This song, much like the open road, felt like a journey through emotions and memories.
About The Composition
- Title: Give It Away
- Composer: Bill Anderson, Buddy Cannon, and Jamey Johnson
- Premiere Date: July 24, 2006
- Album/Opus/Collection: It Just Comes Natural
- Genre: Country
Background
“Give It Away” is a country song recorded by George Strait, written by Bill Anderson, Buddy Cannon, and Jamey Johnson. Released in 2006, the song became the lead single from Strait’s album “It Just Comes Natural.” The inspiration behind the song is a blend of personal heartbreak and universal themes of loss and moving on. Upon its release, “Give It Away” received widespread acclaim, topping the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. It stands as a significant work in George Strait’s extensive catalog, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotions through simple yet powerful storytelling.
Musical Style
The song is characterized by its traditional country instrumentation, featuring acoustic guitar, steel guitar, and a steady rhythm section. Strait’s vocal delivery is emotive yet restrained, perfectly matching the song’s melancholic theme. The arrangement is straightforward, allowing the poignant lyrics to take center stage. The use of steel guitar adds a layer of sorrow and nostalgia, enhancing the song’s overall impact.
Lyrics
The lyrics of “Give It Away” tell the story of a man dealing with the end of a relationship. The recurring line, “Just give it away,” refers to the emotional detachment and the physical act of giving away items that once held sentimental value. The song’s themes of loss, detachment, and moving on are universally relatable, making it a powerful piece for anyone who has experienced a breakup.
Performance History
“Give It Away” has been performed numerous times by George Strait in concert, often receiving enthusiastic responses from audiences. Its success on the charts and in live performances underscores its significance in Strait’s career. The song’s poignant message and memorable melody have made it a staple in his live shows.
Cultural Impact
The song has had a notable impact on country music, showcasing the timeless appeal of traditional country themes and instrumentation. It has been covered by various artists and featured in numerous playlists and compilations, solidifying its place in the country music canon. Beyond its genre, “Give It Away” has touched listeners from all walks of life with its heartfelt portrayal of letting go and moving forward.
Legacy
“Give It Away” remains one of George Strait’s most beloved songs, continuing to resonate with new audiences years after its release. Its timeless themes and emotional depth ensure its lasting relevance in the world of country music. The song’s ability to connect with listeners on a personal level speaks to its enduring importance.
Conclusion
“Give It Away” is a testament to George Strait’s talent for storytelling and emotional expression. Its blend of poignant lyrics, traditional country instrumentation, and Strait’s masterful delivery make it a standout piece in his repertoire. I encourage you to listen to this song and experience the emotional journey it offers. For an especially moving rendition, I recommend George Strait’s live performances, where the raw emotion of the song truly comes to life.
Video
Lyrics
She was stormin’ through the house that day
And I could tell she was leavin’
And I thought, “Aw, she’ll be back”
‘Til she turned around and pointed at the wall and said
“That picture from our honeymoon
That night in ‘Frisco Bay
Just give it away”
She said, “Give it away”
“And that big four poster king sized bed
Where so much love was made
Just give it away”
She said, “Just give it away”
Just give it away
There ain’t nothing in this house worth fightin’ over
Oh, and we’re both tired of fightin’ anyway
So just give it away
So I tried to move on
But I found that each woman I held
Just reminded me of that day, hmm
When that front door swung wide open
She flung her diamond ring
Said, “Give it away
Just give it away”
And I said, “Now honey
Don’t you even want your half of everything?”
She said, “Give it away
Just give it away”
Just give it away
There ain’t nothing in this house worth fightin’ over
Oh, and we’re both tired of fightin’ anyway
So just give it away
So, I’m still right here where she left me
Along with all the other things
She don’t care about anymore, hmm
Like that picture from our honeymoon
That night in ‘Frisco Bay
She said, “Give it away”
Well, I can’t give it away
That big four poster king sized bed
Where all our love was made
She said, “Give it away”
Well, I can’t give it away
I’ve got a furnished house
A diamond ring
And a lonely, broken heart
Full of love
And I can’t even give it away