About the song
In the realm of country music, Vern Gosdin’s “That Just About Does It” stands as a timeless classic, a poignant and heartfelt ballad that captures the universal themes of love, loss, and the lingering memories of a cherished relationship. Released in 1985, the song reached number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart and became one of Gosdin’s biggest hits, cementing his status as a country music icon and a master of emotional expression.
Penned by Troy Seals and Buddy Cannon, “That Just About Does It” is a narrative told from the perspective of a man reminiscing about his lost love, the simple moments they shared, and the lingering pain of their separation. The song’s opening lines, “I saw you walkin’ down the street today / With your head held high and your hair all gray / And I thought about the years we had / And how I’ve missed you, that’s all I said,” set the stage for a bittersweet journey through the memories of a love that once was.
Gosdin’s vocals, infused with a blend of world-weariness, vulnerability, and a touch of quiet longing, perfectly convey the emotions of the heartbroken protagonist. The song’s arrangement, characterized by a slow, deliberate tempo, a melancholic guitar melody, and a subtle harmonica accompaniment, creates a sense of longing and regret, amplifying the emotional impact of the lyrics.
The chorus, a repeated expression of the singer’s realization that even the smallest reminders of his lost love can trigger a flood of emotions, is one of the most memorable and poignant in country music history: “That just about does it / That’s all it takes to bring me down / That just about does it / To make me cry and turn this whole town upside down.” These lines encapsulate the song’s core message, the enduring power of love and the lingering pain of loss, even after the passage of time.
“That Just About Does It” was released in 1985 as the lead single from Gosdin’s album “I’m Still Here.” The song’s immediate success propelled it to the top of the country charts and solidified Gosdin’s status as one of the most popular and influential singers of his era. The song also earned Gosdin a Grammy Award nomination for Best Male Country Vocal Performance in 1986.
Beyond its commercial impact, “That Just About Does It” has become a cultural touchstone, appearing in countless films, television shows, and commercials. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to its timeless appeal, relatable lyrics, and Gosdin’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply personal level.
“That Just About Does It” remains a beloved classic, resonating with listeners across generations who appreciate the power of music to capture the universal experiences of love, loss, and the enduring power of memories. The song serves as a reminder that even in the face of heartache, we can find solace in cherishing the memories of those we love and the moments we shared.
Additional details about the song:
- Year of release: 1985
- Genre: Country
- Songwriters: Troy Seals, Buddy Cannon
- Original album: I’m Still Here
- Billboard Hot Country Singles chart position: #1
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