About the song
Loretta Lynn: A Timeless Voice for Women
If you’re a fan of country music, then the name Loretta Lynn is undoubtedly familiar. With a voice as clear as crystal and lyrics that hit home, Lynn has been a cornerstone of the country music scene for decades. Her songs have often been described as anthems for working-class women, and her ability to convey raw emotion and vulnerability has earned her a special place in the hearts of millions.
One of Lynn’s most iconic performances is her live rendition of “You Ain’t Woman Enough (To Take My Man)” at the 1985 Farm Aid concert. This song, released a decade earlier, quickly became a feminist anthem, empowering women to stand up for themselves and their relationships. The live performance at Farm Aid, with its passionate vocals and energetic crowd, only served to solidify its place in music history.
A Song for the Ages
What makes “You Ain’t Woman Enough” so enduring? It’s a combination of factors. First and foremost, the lyrics are incredibly relatable. Lynn paints a vivid picture of a woman who is fiercely protective of her love and her home. The song is a declaration of independence and self-worth, and it resonates with anyone who has ever felt threatened or undervalued.
Beyond the lyrics, the song’s melody is catchy and memorable. The driving rhythm and upbeat tempo create a sense of energy and excitement that is infectious. And, of course, Lynn’s powerful vocals are the icing on the cake. Her voice is full of grit and determination, and she delivers the lyrics with such conviction that it’s impossible not to be moved.
The Power of Live Performance
The 1985 Farm Aid performance of “You Ain’t Woman Enough” is particularly noteworthy because it captures the raw energy and emotion of a live concert. Lynn’s stage presence is magnetic, and she commands the attention of the crowd from the very first note. The audience’s enthusiastic response is palpable, and it creates a sense of unity and shared experience.
This performance is a testament to the power of music to bring people together. It’s a reminder that even decades after its release, “You Ain’t Woman Enough” remains a relevant and inspiring song. Loretta Lynn may be a country music legend, but her music continues to speak to new generations of listeners.
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Lyrics
You’ve come to tell me somethin’
You say I ought to know
That he don’t love me any more
And I’ll have to let him go
You say you’re gonna take him
Oh, but I don’t think you can
‘Cause you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
Women like you, they’re a dime a dozen
You can buy ’em anywhere
For you to get to him I’d have to move over
And I’m gonna stand right here
It’ll be over my dead body
So, get out while you can
‘Cause you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
Aw, pick it out there, Dave
Sometimes a man’s caught lookin’
At things that he don’t need
He took a second look at you
But he’s in love with me
Well, I don’t know where that leaves you
Ah, but I know where I stand
And you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
Women like you they’re a dime a dozen
You can buy ’em anywhere
For you to get to him I’d have to move over
And I’m gonna stand right here
It’ll be over my dead body
So, get out while you can
‘Cause you ain’t woman enough
To take my man
No, you ain’t woman enough
To take my man