Introduction
One quiet weekend afternoon, I happened to play “Flowers on the Wall” by The Statler Brothers. The familiar melody transported me back to the 1960s—the golden era of American country music—when songs were not just entertainment but the voice of an entire generation.
About The Composition
- Title: Flowers on the Wall
- Composer: Lew DeWitt
- Release Date: 1965
- Album: Flowers on the Wall by The Statler Brothers
- Genre: Country
Background
“Flowers on the Wall” was written and composed by Lew DeWitt, the original tenor of The Statler Brothers. Released in 1965, it was the group’s debut single and quickly climbed to number 2 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart, also reaching number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100. The song not only marked a successful beginning for The Statler Brothers but also helped bring country music closer to mainstream audiences.
Musical Style
The song embodies traditional country music with a light-hearted yet subtly humorous melody. The combination of rustic guitar tones and the group’s harmonious vocals creates an easy-listening and relatable tune. Lew DeWitt utilized refined songwriting techniques, telling a story in a simple yet profound manner that allows listeners to easily empathize.
Lyrics Analysis
“Flowers on the Wall” narrates the story of a lonely man trying to convince others (and perhaps himself) that he’s doing fine after a breakup. He describes engaging in trivial activities like “counting flowers on the wall” or “playing solitaire till dawn” to mask his loneliness and emptiness. The lyrics are tinged with irony, reflecting the character’s true emotions beneath a humorous facade.
Performance History
Upon its release, the song received warm reception from both audiences and critics. It was performed on numerous major stages and became one of The Statler Brothers’ signature songs. Additionally, “Flowers on the Wall” has been covered by various artists, including Eric Heatherly in 2000, who brought the song back onto the charts.
Cultural Impact
“Flowers on the Wall” is not only a celebrated piece in the country music genre but has also appeared in other media. Notably, the song was featured in Quentin Tarantino’s 1994 film Pulp Fiction, introducing it to a younger and more diverse audience.
Legacy
More than half a century has passed, yet “Flowers on the Wall” retains its charm. The song continues to be played on radio stations and remains on playlists of classic country music enthusiasts. It stands as a testament to the timeless power of music, touching the hearts of multiple generations.
Conclusion
“Flowers on the Wall” is more than just a song; it’s a piece of memory and a fragment of music history. If you haven’t listened to it yet, I encourage you to take a moment to enjoy The Statler Brothers’ original version. You’ll undoubtedly find sincere and profound emotions within
Video
Lyrics
I keep hearin’ you’re concerned about my happiness
But all that thought you’re givin’ me is conscience I guess
If I were walkin’ in your shoes, I wouldn’t worry none
While you and your friends are worried about me, I’m havin’ lots of fun
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
Last night I dressed in tails, pretended I was on the town
As long as I can dream it’s hard to slow this swinger down
So please don’t give a thought to me, I’m really doin’ fine
You can always find me here, I’m havin’ quite a time
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
It’s good to see you, I must go, I know I look a fright
Anyway my eyes are not accustomed to this light
And my shoes are not accustomed to this hard concrete
So I must go back to my room and make my day complete
Countin’ flowers on the wall
That don’t bother me at all
Playin’ solitaire ’til dawn with a deck of 51
Smokin’ cigarettes and watchin’ Captain Kangaroo
Now don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do
Don’t tell me, I’ve nothin’ to do