About the song
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” released in July 1968, stands as one of Tammy Wynette’s seminal studio albums, marking a pivotal moment in her career under Epic Records. With 11 tracks that blend original compositions and cover songs, the album showcases Wynette’s vocal prowess and emotional depth, firmly establishing her as a leading figure in country music during the late 1960s.
**Background and Recording**
Tammy Wynette’s journey with Epic Records began in 1966, rapidly ascending to prominence with a string of chart-topping singles by 1968, including “My Elusive Dreams,” “I Don’t Wanna Play House,” and the iconic “D-I-V-O-R-C-E.” The title track, penned by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman, resonated deeply with Wynette, reflecting her own personal struggles. “I hated myself for not writing that song. It fit my life completely,” she later revealed. Billy Sherrill, Wynette’s producer, recognized its potential and centered the album around this poignant anthem.
Recorded at Columbia Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, from March 22 to March 25, 1968, the sessions were meticulously overseen by Sherrill, known for his polished Nashville Sound production style. The album featured five new recordings alongside cover versions of popular hits from both country and pop genres. These included renditions of The Beatles’ “Yesterday,” Ronnie Dove’s “Kiss Away,” Patsy Cline’s “Sweet Dreams,” Glen Campbell’s “Gentle on My Mind,” and Andy Williams’ “Lonely Street.”
**Content and Reception**
Upon its release, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” garnered acclaim from critics and listeners alike. Billboard praised Wynette’s vocal delivery, noting, “Tammy Wynette sings with feeling and power like no other, and this latest LP offering is sure to be much in demand by her numerous fans.” The album’s emotional resonance and Wynette’s distinctive voice captivated audiences, ensuring its success both commercially and critically.
The album reached the pinnacle of the American Billboard Country LP’s chart just three months after its debut, marking Wynette’s first number one album. Its lead single, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” released in April 1968, swiftly climbed to the top of the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, becoming Wynette’s fourth number one country single. The song also made its mark on the Billboard Hot 100, peaking at number 63, and topped Canada’s RPM Country chart.
In subsequent years, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” continued to resonate with listeners, its enduring popularity reflecting Wynette’s influence and impact on country music. Greg Adams of AllMusic, in a retrospective review, lauded the album’s vocal performances and overall impact, affirming its place in Wynette’s discography beyond just its titular hit.
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” remains a cornerstone in Tammy Wynette’s career, showcasing her ability to blend personal narrative with universal themes, solidifying her reputation as the “First Lady of Country Music” and cementing her legacy in the annals of American music history.
Video
Lyrics
Our little boy is four years old and quite a little man
So we spell out the words we don’t want him to understand
Like T-O-Y or maybe S-U-R-P-R-I-S-E
But the words we’re hiding from him now
Tears the heart right out of me.Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be goin’ away
I love you both and it will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E.Watch him smile, he thinks it Christmas
Or his fifth birthday
And he thinks C-U-S-T-O-D-Y spells fun or play
I spell out all the hurtin’ words
And turn my head when I speak
‘Cause I can’t spell away this hurt
That’s drippin’ down my cheek.Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be goin’ away
I love you both and it will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E.