About the song
In the world of country music, few artists have left a lasting impact like Patsy Cline. With her powerful voice and unique style, she has become an iconic figure in the genre. One of her lesser-known songs, “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray,” is a hidden gem that showcases her talent and versatility. Released in 1957, this song was part of a series of singles that Cline recorded for Decca Records, and it has since become a fan favorite.
Composed by Eddie Miller and W.S. Stevenson, “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray” is a poignant ballad that tells the story of a person who is struggling to come to terms with the end of a relationship. The song’s lyrics are a poignant reflection of the pain and heartache that can come with the loss of love. Cline’s powerful vocals bring the song to life, conveying the emotions and vulnerability of the lyrics.
The song was recorded on April 25, 1957, at the Decca Records Studio in New York City. Cline was backed by the Anita Kerr Singers, and the session was produced by Paul Cohen. This song was one of six tracks that Cline recorded during this session, including “Don’t Ever Leave Me Again,” “Fingerprints,” and “Try Again.”
While “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray” was not a major commercial success, it has since become a fan favorite and a testament to Cline’s talent and range. The song’s unique blend of country, pop, and rockabilly styles showcases Cline’s ability to adapt to different genres and styles, and her powerful vocals bring the song to life.
In conclusion, “Three Cigarettes in an Ashtray” is a hidden gem in Patsy Cline’s discography that showcases her talent and versatility. The song’s poignant lyrics and powerful vocals make it a standout track in her catalog, and it is a must-listen for fans of country music.
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Lyrics
Two cigarettes in an ashtray
My love and I in a small cafe
Then a stranger came along
And everything went wrong
Now there’s three cigarettes in the ashtray (In the ashtray)
I watched her take him from me
And his love is no longer my own
Now they are gone and I sit alone
And watch one cigarette burn away
I watched her take him from me
And his love is no longer my own
Now they are gone and I sit alone
And watch one cigarette burn away