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Reba McEntire – What Am I Gonna Do About You

“Scroll down to the end of the article to listen to music.”

Introduction

“What Am I Gonna Do About You” is more than just a country song; it is a deep dive into the heartache and the emotional labyrinth one navigates post-breakup. This piece, immortalized by Reba McEntire, stands out in her illustrious career for its poignant narrative and heartfelt delivery.

About The Composition

  • Title: What Am I Gonna Do About You
  • Composer: Jim Allison, Doug Gilmore, Bob Simon
  • Premiere Date: Released as a single in September 1986
  • Album/Opus/Collection: Featured on Reba McEntire’s eleventh studio album of the same name
  • Genre: Country

Background

Originally recorded by Con Hunley, “What Am I Gonna Do About You” found its perfect voice with Reba McEntire. Released as part of her 1986 album, it became a significant hit, showcasing McEntire’s ability to convey deep emotional narratives. The song quickly climbed to number one on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart, echoing the sentiments of many who have struggled with lingering memories of past relationships.

Musical Style

The song is a ballad, characterized by its slow tempo and reflective mood. McEntire’s rendition is particularly noted for its emotional depth, with a melodic structure that complements the lyrical content. The song effectively uses the traditional country instrumentation to support the storytelling, making it a classic in the genre.

Lyrics/Libretto

The lyrics of “What Am I Gonna Do About You” explore the theme of coping with memories of a past love. It poetically describes the everyday moments that unexpectedly bring memories flooding back, portraying the challenge of moving on despite seeming normal to the outside world.

Performance History

Since its release, the song has been a staple in McEntire’s performances, often highlighted by fans for its relatability and McEntire’s powerful vocal performance. It topped both the U.S. and Canadian country charts, marking a significant achievement in her career.

Cultural Impact

The song’s impact extends beyond just chart success; it has become a part of the emotional fabric of many listeners’ lives. It also features prominently in discussions about songs that effectively depict personal struggles through evocative storytelling.

Legacy

“What Am I Gonna Do About You” remains a testament to Reba McEntire’s legacy as a storyteller within the country music genre. Its enduring popularity underscores its resonance with themes of love, loss, and recovery—emotions that are universally understood.

Conclusion

Reflecting on “What Am I Gonna Do About You” invites an exploration of our own experiences with love and loss. Reba McEntire’s interpretation offers not just a musical escape but a companion through difficult times. For those looking to experience the depth of this song, listening to McEntire’s album or watching her perform live can be profoundly moving​ (Wikipedia)​​ (Wikipedia)

Video

Lyrics

The kid down the street mowes the grass every week
The neighbor next door fixed the roof where it leaked
Job’s going fine and the bills are all paid
And everyone thinks that I’m doing OK
There’s a guy down at work
He’s asked me out once or twice
I haven’t said yes
But I’m thinking I might
And on my way home I thought I saw you walk by
If only I could get you out of my mind
What in the world am I gonna do about you
Oh your memory keeps coming back
From out of the blue
But I still can’t believe that we’re through
So tell me what in the world am I gonna do about you
What am I gonna do about you
I went to the store
But it wasn’t much fun
It doesn’t take long when you’re shopping for one
Standing in line I thought I saw you walk in
And that’s when it started all over again
What in the world am I gonna do about you
Oh your memory keeps coming back
From out of the blue
But I still can’t believe that we’re through
So tell me what in the world am I gonna do about you
What am I gonna do about you
Darling what am I gonna do about you

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