About the song
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” marked a significant milestone in Tammy Wynette’s illustrious career, solidifying her status as one of country music’s leading voices. Released in July 1968 under Epic Records, this studio album comprised 11 tracks that showcased Wynette’s emotive vocals and storytelling prowess. Produced by the renowned Billy Sherrill, the album not only highlighted Wynette’s talent but also her ability to interpret a diverse range of material, from original compositions to iconic cover songs.
At the heart of the album was its title track, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E,” a poignant ballad penned by Bobby Braddock and Curly Putman. Inspired by Wynette’s personal experiences, the song resonated deeply with audiences, becoming her fourth number one hit on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart. Its narrative of marital breakdown struck a chord, reflecting the era’s changing social dynamics and Wynette’s own life challenges.
Recorded at Columbia Studio in Nashville, Tennessee, between March 22 and March 25, 1968, the album featured a blend of new recordings and covers. Among the standout tracks were Wynette’s rendition of The Beatles’ classic “Yesterday,” Patsy Cline’s “Sweet Dreams,” and Glen Campbell’s “Gentle on My Mind.” Each song showcased Wynette’s unique ability to infuse traditional country themes with her distinctive vocal style, garnering praise from critics and fans alike.
Upon its release, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” received acclaim for Wynette’s heartfelt delivery and the album’s overall quality. Billboard magazine commended her powerful vocal performances, noting, “Tammy Wynette sings with feeling and power like no other.” The album’s success was further underscored when it topped the Billboard Country LP’s chart just three months after its debut, marking Wynette’s first number one album.
Over the years, “D-I-V-O-R-C-E” has endured as a testament to Wynette’s enduring influence on country music. Its title track remains a timeless classic, continuing to resonate with listeners for its emotional depth and Wynette’s sincere portrayal. Reissued digitally and on compact disc, the album continues to attract new generations of fans, reaffirming Wynette’s legacy as a pioneering figure in country music history.
“D-I-V-O-R-C-E” not only cemented Tammy Wynette’s place in country music but also showcased her ability to navigate the complexities of human relationships through her music, leaving an indelible mark on the genre and touching countless lives along the way.
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 going 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’s Christmas or his fifth birthday
And he thinks C-U-S-T-O-D-Y spells fun or play
I spell out all the hurting 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 going 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