About the song
“As Soon as I Hang Up the Phone” stands as a unique gem in the country music landscape, crafted by the legendary duo Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn. Written by Twitty himself, this poignant song was released in July 1974 as the lead single from their album “Country Partners.” It swiftly ascended to the top of the U.S. country singles chart, marking their fourth number one hit as a duo. Its success extended globally, reaching number one in South Africa and resonating with audiences far beyond American borders.
At its core, “As Soon as I Hang Up the Phone” tells a tale of love and loss with a distinctive narrative approach. The song blends spoken word and sung vocals, a rarity in its time. Loretta Lynn delivers the heartfelt sung verses while Conway Twitty contributes the poignant spoken segments. What makes the recording even more special is the unconventional way it was produced: Twitty recorded his parts from another room, simulating a phone conversation with Lynn in the recording booth. This technique not only adds authenticity to the song’s theme of distant communication but also enhances its emotional depth.
Thematically, the song delves into the complexities of a relationship on the brink of dissolution. It portrays a woman grappling with the realization that her efforts to salvage the romance are futile. The poignant lyrics capture her emotional journey as she navigates the painful reality that her partner’s heart has already moved on, despite her desperate attempts to hold on.
Beyond its narrative power, “As Soon as I Hang Up the Phone” showcases Twitty and Lynn’s unparalleled vocal chemistry and storytelling prowess. Their ability to evoke raw emotions through their performances cements their status as country music icons. The song’s success on both domestic and international charts underscores its universal appeal and enduring impact on listeners worldwide.
In essence, “As Soon as I Hang Up the Phone” remains a testament to Conway Twitty and Loretta Lynn’s artistry and their ability to create timeless classics that resonate across generations. Its blend of spoken word and soulful singing continues to captivate audiences, making it a cherished part of the country music canon.
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Lyrics
Hello
(Hello Loretta)
Darlin’ I knew it was you
(Loretta there’s something)
(I just got to tell you)
Oh please tell me what to do
(I don’t really know how to say this)
(But I want to tell you that I)
You gave me the will to go on
As soon as I picked up the phone
(No no you don’t understand Loretta)
(I’m trying to tell you that I)
The talk is around that we’re through
(Yeah I know I’ve heard it too)
Oh darling tell me what to do
I knew you’d tell me they were wrong
As soon as I picked up the phone
(Oh but it’s true they’re not wrong)
Oh no
(I’m sorry Loretta)
Oh no
I can’t believe that it’s true
Oh no oh no I can’t believe that we’re through
(I know you know that I never thought)
(It would come to this)
You tell me it’s over and done
You say that you’ve had all your fun
(You’ve just got to believe me
(That I never meant to hurt you)
But I can’t believe you’ve been gone
As soon as I hang up the phone
(Yeah I’ll be gone)
As soon as I hang up the phone
(Goodbye Loretta)