About the song
Let’s take a journey into the heartrending ballad “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” by the legendary Tammy Wynette. This timeless classic, co-written by Wynette herself alongside Bobby Braddock, stands as a poignant testament to the complexities of marriage and its dissolution.
Originally released as part of Tammy Wynette’s album “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” in 1968, the song quickly ascended the charts, reaching the second spot on the US Billboard Hot Country Singles chart. Its raw emotional honesty struck a chord with audiences, solidifying Wynette’s reputation as one of country music’s most profound storytellers.
Tammy Wynette, often hailed as the “First Lady of Country Music,” had an unparalleled gift for conveying the joys and sorrows of life through her evocative voice and poignant lyrics. With numerous accolades to her name, including multiple Grammy Awards and induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Wynette’s impact on the genre is immeasurable.
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” explores the painful reality of marital breakdown and its impact on a family, told from the perspective of a young child spelling out the word to shield them from the harsh truth. Wynette’s emotive delivery and heartfelt storytelling elevate the song to a level of profound poignancy that continues to resonate with listeners today.
Despite the passage of time, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” remains a timeless anthem for anyone who has experienced the pain of a broken relationship. Its universal themes and heartfelt sincerity ensure its enduring relevance, reaffirming Wynette’s legacy as one of country music’s most enduring icons.
So, whether you’re a longtime fan of Tammy Wynette’s music or discovering “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” for the first time, its emotional depth and haunting melody are sure to leave a lasting impression, serving as a poignant reminder of the fragility of love and the resilience of the human spirit.
Video
Lyrics
Our little boy is four years old and quite a little man
So we spell out the words we don’t want him to understand
Like T-O-Y or maybe S-U-R P-R-I-S-E
But the words we’re hiding from him now
Tear the heart right out of me.Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E; becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be goin’ away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E.Watch him smile, he thinks it Christmas
Or his 5th Birthday
And he thinks C-U-S-T-O-D-Y spells fun or play
I spell out all the hurtin’ words
And turn my head when I speak
‘Cause I can’t spell away this hurt
That’s drippin’ down my cheek.Our D-I-V-O-R-C-E; becomes final today
Me and little J-O-E will be goin’ away
I love you both and this will be pure H-E double L for me
Oh, I wish that we could stop this D-I-V-O-R-C-E.