About the song
“Last Thing I Needed First Thing This Morning” is one of those timeless songs that exemplifies Willie Nelson’s unmatched ability to convey deep emotion through music. Released in 1982 as part of his critically acclaimed album *Always on My Mind*, this track is a poignant reflection of heartache and the challenges of life’s unexpected blows. Written by Gary P. Nunn and Donna Farar, the song quickly became one of Nelson’s standout tracks, resonating deeply with fans of country music.
The song tells the story of a person who, already burdened by life’s difficulties, is dealt another blow first thing in the morning, encapsulating the feeling that sometimes, when it rains, it pours. With lines like “The last thing I needed, the first thing this morning, was to have you walk out on me,” the lyrics speak to the universal experience of struggling through tough times, only to be met with even more hardship. Nelson’s delivery of these words is raw and sincere, making the listener feel the weight of each line.
Willie Nelson’s voice, with its distinct nasal tone and phrasing, adds a layer of authenticity to the song. He doesn’t just sing the words; he inhabits them, bringing to life the sorrow and resignation that the lyrics describe. His performance is understated but powerful, drawing listeners in and making them feel as though they are sharing in his pain.
*Always on My Mind*, the album that features “Last Thing I Needed First Thing This Morning,” was a commercial success, reaching number 2 on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart and solidifying Nelson’s place as one of the most beloved figures in country music. The album’s title track, a cover of the Elvis Presley hit, became a massive crossover success, but it’s songs like “Last Thing I Needed First Thing This Morning” that showcase Nelson’s ability to connect with listeners on a deeply emotional level.
In the decades since its release, “Last Thing I Needed First Thing This Morning” has remained a favorite among fans and has been covered by other artists, further cementing its status as a classic. The song is a testament to Willie Nelson’s enduring talent and his unique ability to turn personal pain into universal art. For those who appreciate the storytelling aspect of country music, this track is a masterclass in how to convey emotion and narrative in just a few minutes of song.
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Lyrics
The postman delivered
A past due bill notice
The alarm clock rang two hours late
The garbage man left all the trash
On the sidewalk
And the hinges fell off of the gate
And this morning at breakfast
I spilled all the coffee
And I opened the door on my knee
But the last thing I needed
The first thing this morning
Was to have you walk out on me
Last night, you came home late
And I knew you’d been drinking
By that old mellow look on your face
I thought, “It don’t matter
Because it’s the holiday season”
And you fill such a big empty space
But then I laid down beside you
And I wanted your loving
Because your love makes my life complete
But the last thing I needed
The first thing this morning
Was to have you walk out on me
So excuse me for looking
Like my world just ended
And excuse me for looking
Like I just lost my best friend
And excuse me for living
And being forgiving
So just go on if you want to be free
But the last thing I needed
The first thing this morning
Was to have you walk out on me