About the song
“Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind)” stands as a landmark in country music history, catapulting Loretta Lynn to the forefront of the genre with its candid lyrics and powerful delivery. Released in early 1967, this song marked Lynn’s first number-one hit on the country charts, becoming a defining moment in her illustrious career.
Co-written by Loretta Lynn and her sister Peggy Sue, “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin'” is deeply rooted in personal experience. It tells the story of a frustrated wife who confronts her husband’s habit of returning home inebriated, expecting affection despite his neglectful behavior. This narrative struck a chord with audiences, resonating not only for its relatability but also for its unapologetic portrayal of domestic strife—a theme that was groundbreaking and controversial for its time.
The song’s success was immediate and enduring. It reached the pinnacle of the country charts on February 11, 1967, dethroning Jack Greene’s “There Goes My Everything.” Lynn’s compelling vocal performance, backed by the harmonies of the Jordanaires, captured the essence of raw emotion and garnered widespread acclaim. Its impact extended beyond music charts; it set a precedent for Lynn’s subsequent trailblazing hits, including the equally provocative “Rated X” (1972) and “The Pill” (1975), which challenged societal norms and expanded the narrative boundaries within country music.
Following the single’s triumph, an album of the same name was released, further solidifying Lynn’s stature in the industry. The album topped the charts and showcased her versatility as both a performer and a songwriter. Lynn’s achievements with “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin'” were not confined to commercial success alone; she made history as the first woman in country music to earn a gold certification from the RIAA for an album.
The song’s enduring legacy is underscored by its recognition in various music rankings. In 2003, CMT honored “Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin'” by placing it at No. 47 on its list of the 100 Greatest Songs in Country Music. Rolling Stone reaffirmed its significance in 2024 by ranking it at No. 38 on their compilation of the 200 Greatest Country Songs of All Time, affirming its timeless appeal and cultural impact.
“Don’t Come Home A-Drinkin’ (With Lovin’ on Your Mind)” remains a testament to Loretta Lynn’s prowess as a storyteller and a trailblazer in country music, paving the way for future generations of artists to explore themes of personal experience and social commentary through their music.
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Lyrics
Well, you thought I’d be waitin’ up when you came home last night
You’d been out with all the boys and you ended up half tight
Liquor and love, they just don’t mix
Leave that bottle or me behind
And don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
No, don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
Just stay out there on the town and see what you can find
‘Cause if you want that kind of love, well, you don’t need none of mine
So don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
You never take me anywhere because you’re always gone
Many a night I’ve laid awake and cried here all alone
Then you come in a kissin’ on me it happens every time
So don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
No, don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
Just stay out there on the town and see what you can find
‘Cause if you want that kind of love, well, you don’t need none of mine
So don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind
No, don’t come home a drinkin’ with lovin’ on your mind