About the song
**Wooden Heart (Joe Dowell, 1958)**
Joe Dowell’s “Wooden Heart” is a quintessential example of 1950s rockabilly, a genre that blended country music with the energetic rhythms of rock and roll. Released in 1958, the song quickly became a popular hit, showcasing Dowell’s distinctive vocal style and the genre’s infectious energy.
The song’s title, “Wooden Heart,” immediately sets a playful and somewhat ironic tone. A wooden heart is often associated with insensitivity or lack of emotion, but in Dowell’s case, it seems to represent a kind of sturdy, unwavering love. The lyrics explore the theme of a love that is so deep and enduring that it feels like a physical part of the singer.
Dowell’s vocal delivery is a key element in the song’s appeal. His voice is raspy and full of character, perfectly suited to the energetic nature of the music. He sings with a sense of urgency and passion, conveying the intensity of his emotions. The backing band provides a driving rhythm, with a prominent bass line and a lively guitar riff. The combination of Dowell’s vocals and the band’s instrumental work creates a powerful and infectious sound.
“Wooden Heart” is more than just a catchy tune. It is a snapshot of a particular time and place in American music history. The song’s blend of country and rock elements reflects the cultural changes that were taking place in the United States during the 1950s. It is a testament to the enduring appeal of rockabilly and a reminder of the power of music to connect with people on a deep emotional level.
Video
Lyrics
Can’t you see I love you
Please don’t break my heart in two
That’s not hard to do
‘Cause I don’t have a wooden heart
And if you say goodbye
Then I know that I would cry
Maybe I would die
‘Cause I don’t have a wooden heart
There’s no strings upon this love of mine
It was always you from the start
Treat me nice, treat me good, treat me like you really should
‘Cause I’m not made of wood and I don’t have a wooden heart
There’s no strings upon this love of mine
It was always you from the start
Treat me nice, treat me good, treat me like you really should
‘Cause I’m not made of wood and I don’t have a wooden heart